Burke County, ND — Planting Guide
What to do in May
We've pulled the most time-sensitive tasks for Burke County, North Dakota this May and put them front and centre. Tackle them in order.
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Move kale, lettuce, and angelica from tray to bed
Bring a watering can to the bed. Each transplant gets a drink the moment it's in the ground, not ten minutes later.
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Put basil, carrots, and cucumber seeds straight in the ground
These tolerate cool soil, so you're not gambling by sowing now.
-
Pick cress and microgreens
The more you pick, the more the plant produces. Letting fruit overripen tells the plant it's time to stop.
Get ahead of June
- Transplants going out: basil, cucumber, and peppers
- Starting indoors: cucumber, kale, and lettuce
- First harvests: lettuce, radish, and arugula
Burke County is in USDA Zone 4a. The average last spring frost is May 14 and the first fall frost is September 24, giving you a growing season of approximately 133 days.
At an elevation of 1,146 ft, Burke County receives approximately 21.9 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 79°F with winter lows around -7°F. The predominant soil type is Loam.
Based on 30 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 27 days year to year — ranging from April 30 in warm years to May 27 in cold years. The growing season is trending longer by about 1.58 days per decade. Burke County scores 51/100 (Moderate) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
4a (°F to °F min)
❄️ Last Frost
May 14
🍂 First Frost
September 24
📅 Growing Season
133 days
⛰️ Elevation
1,146 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
21.9 in
Monthly Watering Calendar
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 1.8 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.1 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Mar | 1.7 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Apr | 2.5 in | 8 days | — | None |
| May | 2.2 in | 8 days | 2.1 in | High |
| Jun | 1.7 in | 4 days | 2.6 in | High |
| Jul | 1.8 in | 6 days | 2.5 in | High |
| Aug | 2.4 in | 7 days | 1.9 in | High |
| Sep | 1.6 in | 5 days | 2.7 in | High |
| Oct | 2 in | 5 days | — | None |
| Nov | 1.8 in | 5 days | — | None |
| Dec | 1.1 in | 6 days | — | None |
Annual total: 21.7 in. Water needs vary by crop — tomatoes need ~1.2"/week while herbs like rosemary need only 0.3"/week. Check individual plant pages for crop-specific water budgets that factor in your county's rainfall and soil drainage.
Burke County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.8-7.6
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 30 years of NOAA weather station data from 3 stations
Beginners: Plant frost-sensitive crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) after the "Safe" date on the left. Harvest or cover them before the "Protect by" date on the right. Hardy crops (lettuce, peas, kale) can go in the yellow transition zones.
How to read this table: "Conservative" means you're safe from frost 9 out of 10 years — best for beginners and frost-sensitive crops. "Average year" is the typical date. "Aggressive" means only 1 in 10 years is that warm — experienced gardeners with frost protection can try these dates.
| Planting Strategy | Last Spring Frost | First Fall Frost | Frost-Free Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conservative (safest) | May 27 | Oct 10 | 136 days |
| Cautious | May 19 | Oct 2 | 136 days |
| Average year | May 14 | Sep 24 | 133 days |
| Optimistic | May 10 | Sep 19 | 132 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 30 | Sep 13 | 136 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±27 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Yes — growing seasons are getting longer here (about 1.6 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Burke County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Burke County
Free expert help is closer than you think. Your county's cooperative extension office connects you with trained gardeners, soil testing labs, and local programs — all specific to Burke County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Burke County North Dakota State University Extension Extension Office
Phone: 701-231-8944
Visit Extension Office Website →
Extension offices are run by land-grant universities and funded by the USDA. Their advice is free, research-based, and tailored to your county's specific conditions.
Master Gardener Program
Free gardening help from trained volunteers
Master Gardeners are community volunteers who complete 40–60 hours of university horticultural training. They answer gardening questions, diagnose plant problems, and offer workshops — all free.
Many extension offices run a Master Gardener hotline where you can call or email with photos of plant problems for free diagnosis.
Soil Testing
Available through your extension office
Before amending your soil, get it tested. Your extension office offers soil testing (typically $10–$25) that tells you exact pH, nutrient levels, and amendment recommendations specific to what you want to grow.
Services Available in Burke County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Burke County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Burke County's soil and climate that big-box stores can't. Plants from local growers are typically hardier because they're already acclimated to your zone.
How to Find Them
Search for "nurseries near Burke County ND" or "garden center Burke County" on Google Maps. Also check with your extension office — they often maintain lists of reputable local nurseries and plant sales.
Community gardens & gardening groups
Community gardens are a great way to learn from experienced gardeners in your area, especially if you're limited on space. Search "community garden Burke County ND" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Burke County Gardeners" or "North Dakota Gardening" are also excellent for local advice and plant swaps.
What to Plant After Your Harvest
After your first crops finish, use the remaining frost-free days to grow a second round.
Show 6 more succession options
Sunlight & Day Length
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Longest Day
15.9 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
8.1 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
11.5 hr/day peak (summer)
Peak sun hours (green dashed line below) account for cloud cover — this is the usable direct sunlight your garden actually receives. Most vegetables need 6+ peak sun hours.
Onion tip: Your long summer days (14+ hours) support long-day onion varieties like Walla Walla, Sweet Spanish, and Ailsa Craig.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Daylight Hours | Peak Sun Hours | Day Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 8.5 hr | 4.9 hr | Short day |
| February | 9.9 hr | 5.8 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.6 hr | 6.7 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.5 hr | 8.4 hr | Neutral |
| May | 15 hr | 8.9 hr | Long day |
| June | 15.9 hr | 11 hr | Long day |
| July | 15.6 hr | 11.5 hr | Long day |
| August | 14.2 hr | 10 hr | Long day |
| September | 12.3 hr | 8 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.5 hr | 7 hr | Short day |
| November | 8.9 hr | 5.3 hr | Short day |
| December | 8.1 hr | 4.4 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting Calendar
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from Jun through Aug.
Best Month to Compost
Jul
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
4 months
Short season — insulate pile or use indoor vermicomposting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 8°F | 17°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 6°F | 15°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 17°F | 22°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 36°F | 33°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| May | 48°F | 46°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Jun | 62°F | 55°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jul | 67°F | 62°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 69°F | 64°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 59°F | 58°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Oct | 46°F | 47°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Nov | 32°F | 36°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Dec | 14°F | 25°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
Highlighted rows = soil 60°F+ (safe for warm-season transplants). Compost finishes fastest during peak activity months.
Pest & Disease Pressure in Burke County
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Insect Pest Pressure
Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.
Disease Risk
Low disease risk — dry conditions reduce fungal problems.
Seasonal Risk
View 3 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Low | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Cabbage worms | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Slugs | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
Organic pest management tips
- Maintain healthy soil with regular compost additions to build natural pest resistance
- Practice crop rotation annually to break pest cycles
- Encourage beneficial insects with flowering herbs like dill, fennel, and yarrow
Cover Crops for Burke County
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with county-specific planting dates.
Spring Cover Crops (2 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | May 18 | Jul 16 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| White clover | Apr 19 | Jul 30 | ✓ Yes | Living mulch, fixes nitrogen, permanent ground cover |
Summer Cover Crops (1 options) — Fill gaps and suppress weeds between plantings
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sunflowers | Jun 11 | Sep 10 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Fall Cover Crops (3 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oats | Aug 15 | Apr 23 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jun 18 | Apr 30 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jun 16 | Apr 30 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 17 mph Summer: 12 mph
Fall: 12 mph Winter: 15 mph
Prevailing wind: S. Windy area — plant a windbreak hedge on the S side of your garden.
Windbreak Benefit
8.6/10
Strongly recommended — a windbreak (fence, hedge, or row of tall crops like corn or sunflowers) will significantly improve garden yields.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (312 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting Potential
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Annual Collection
10,815 gal
Per 1,000 sq ft of roof area (at 80% collection efficiency)
Recommended Setup
7 rain barrels (55 gal each)
For a typical 500 sq ft garden. Serious collectors: consider a 1,750 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
Apr, May, Aug, Oct
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Feb, Sep, Dec
Dry months when you'll rely on stored water — size your storage for this gap.
Rainwater collection tips for your area
- Your county receives approximately 21.7 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 10,815 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Feb, Sep, Dec)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
Soil & Growing Conditions in Burke County
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH 6.8–7.6 · Well Drained drainage
Native soil is well-suited to most vegetables and herbs with regular compost additions.
Watering Needs
Drought stress: 9.5/10
Very high drought stress. Irrigation is critical for garden success. Focus on water-efficient techniques and drought-adapted crops.
Season Tips
133-day frost-free season
Start warm-season crops indoors and focus on short-season varieties. Cold frames extend your season by 3–4 weeks in fall.
Your Free Printable Garden Planner
Plan every bed, every planting, every harvest — in one place. This 24-page printable includes your zone's planting calendar, a month-by-month task list, a seed inventory tracker, a harvest log, and succession-planting charts. Built to print, write in, and actually use all season.
Recommended for Your Garden
Test your soil pH, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium levels before planting.
Get instant, accurate soil pH readings to fine-tune your amendments.
Boost soil fertility and structure with rich, well-aged organic compost.
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Burke County
96 vegetables that grow well in Zone 4a with planting dates for Burke County.
Show all 96 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Apr 2 | May 28 | Jun 4 | Aug 27 – Oct 1 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 12 | May 28 | Jun 4 | Sep 3 – Oct 22 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Jun 18 – Aug 20 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 28 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | May 7 | — | Jul 2 – Jul 30 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Sep 3 – Oct 8 | 110–150 |
| Black Beans | — | May 28 | — | Aug 27 – Oct 15 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Jun 25 – Jul 30 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Jul 16 – Aug 27 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Jun 25 – Jul 30 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Aug 13 – Oct 8 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Apr 2 | May 28 | Jun 4 | Sep 3 – Oct 8 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Jul 16 – Sep 10 | 60–100 |
| Carrots | — | May 7 | — | Jul 9 – Aug 13 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Jul 9 – Sep 10 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Aug 27 – Oct 1 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Aug 6 – Oct 1 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Jul 16 – Aug 27 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Jul 9 – Aug 27 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Aug 6 – Sep 17 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Jul 16 – Aug 27 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Jul 9 – Aug 6 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 12 | May 28 | Jun 4 | Aug 27 – Oct 1 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Jul 9 – Sep 10 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | May 28 | — | Jul 30 – Sep 24 | 60–100 |
| Cress | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | May 28 – Jun 18 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Apr 2 | May 28 | Jun 4 | Jul 23 – Aug 20 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | May 7 | — | Oct 8 – Oct 1 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Apr 2 | May 28 | Jun 4 | Jul 30 – Sep 24 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | May 7 | — | Jul 2 – Jul 30 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Apr 2 | May 28 | Jun 4 | Aug 27 – Oct 1 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | May 28 | — | Aug 13 – Sep 24 | 75–100 |
| Endive | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Jul 2 – Aug 6 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Jul 9 – Aug 6 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Jul 30 – Sep 10 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 12 | May 28 | Jun 4 | Aug 6 – Sep 17 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | May 28 | — | Jul 23 – Sep 17 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 28 | Oct 1 – Oct 22 | 120–180 |
| Hubbard Squash | Apr 2 | May 28 | Jun 4 | Sep 17 – Oct 22 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Apr 2 | May 28 | Jun 4 | Sep 3 – Oct 1 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Jul 2 – Jul 30 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Jul 9 – Sep 3 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | May 28 | — | Aug 27 – Oct 1 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Jul 2 – Aug 6 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Jun 18 – Jul 23 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Aug 13 – Oct 8 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Aug 6 – Sep 17 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Jun 18 – Aug 27 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | May 28 | — | Jul 30 – Sep 10 | 60–90 |
| Mache | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Jun 25 – Jul 30 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Apr 2 | May 28 | Jun 4 | Aug 13 – Oct 1 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | May 21 – Jun 18 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 7 | Jul 2 – Aug 27 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Jun 18 – Jul 16 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Jun 18 – Aug 20 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Jul 9 – Aug 13 | 55–75 |
| Onion | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Aug 13 – Oct 1 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Jun 25 – Jul 23 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | May 7 | — | Aug 20 – Oct 1 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Apr 2 | May 28 | Jun 4 | Jul 23 – Aug 20 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Jul 9 – Sep 3 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 26 | May 28 | Jun 4 | Aug 6 – Oct 15 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 12 | May 28 | Jun 4 | Jul 30 – Sep 24 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 12 | May 28 | Jun 4 | Aug 13 – Oct 22 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Apr 2 | May 28 | Jun 4 | Sep 3 – Oct 22 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Jun 25 – Jul 30 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Jul 16 – Aug 20 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | May 7 | — | Jun 4 – Jun 25 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Jun 11 | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Jul 30 – Sep 10 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | May 7 | — | Jul 30 – Sep 3 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | May 7 | — | Aug 20 – Oct 1 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Jul 23 – Sep 17 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Jul 9 – Aug 6 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 12 | May 28 | Jun 4 | Aug 6 – Sep 10 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Aug 13 – Oct 1 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 19 | May 21 | Jun 4 | Jul 30 – Sep 24 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 12 | May 28 | Jun 4 | Jul 30 – Sep 24 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Jul 9 – Sep 3 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | May 28 | — | Aug 20 – Oct 15 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Apr 2 | May 28 | Jun 4 | Sep 3 – Oct 1 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Jun 18 – Aug 20 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Apr 2 | May 28 | Jun 4 | Jul 23 – Sep 24 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Apr 2 | May 28 | Jun 4 | Aug 27 – Oct 22 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 28 | Sep 17 – Oct 22 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Mar 12 | May 28 | Jun 4 | Aug 13 – Oct 1 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | May 28 | — | Jul 30 – Sep 10 | 60–90 |
| Tatsoi | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Jun 18 – Jul 23 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 12 | May 28 | Jun 4 | Aug 6 – Oct 15 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 12 | May 28 | Jun 4 | Aug 6 – Oct 15 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | May 7 | — | Jun 18 – Jul 23 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | Jun 25 – Jul 30 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Apr 2 | May 28 | Jun 4 | Aug 13 – Oct 1 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | May 28 | — | Jul 23 – Sep 17 | 50–65 |
| Zucchini | Apr 2 | May 28 | Jun 4 | Jul 23 – Sep 17 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Burke County
22 fruits that grow well in Zone 4a with planting dates for Burke County.
Show all 22 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Jun 11 | Sep 10 – Nov 5 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Jun 11 | — | 730–1095 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Jun 11 | — | 730–1095 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Jun 11 | Aug 20 – Sep 24 | 70–90 |
| Cranberries | — | — | Jun 11 | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | Jun 11 | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Jun 11 | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Jun 11 | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Jun 11 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Jun 11 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Jun 11 | Aug 20 – Oct 15 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Jun 11 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | Jun 11 | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Jun 11 | Sep 3 – Oct 15 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Jun 11 | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | Jun 11 | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | Jun 11 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Jun 11 | — | 730–1825 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Jun 11 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Jun 11 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Jun 11 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Jun 11 | Sep 10 – Nov 5 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Burke County
32 herbs that grow well in Zone 4a with planting dates for Burke County.
Show all 32 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 7 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 7 | Aug 6 – Oct 1 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 19 | May 21 | Jun 4 | Jul 30 – Oct 1 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 21 | Aug 20 – Oct 15 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 7 | Jul 2 – Aug 20 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 7 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 21 | Jul 23 – Sep 24 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 7 | Jul 9 – Sep 17 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 7 | Jun 18 – Aug 20 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 21 | Jul 23 – Oct 1 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 7 | Jun 18 – Aug 20 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 21 | Jul 23 – Oct 1 | 60–90 |
| Dill | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 7 | Jun 18 – Aug 20 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | May 21 | Sep 24 – Oct 15 | 120–180 |
| Fennel (herb) | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 7 | Jul 9 – Sep 17 | 60–90 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | May 21 | Jul 23 – Oct 1 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | May 21 | Aug 6 – Oct 1 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | May 21 | Jul 30 – Oct 1 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | May 21 | Jul 23 – Sep 10 | 60–70 |
| Lovage | — | — | May 21 | Jul 30 – Oct 1 | 70–90 |
| Mint | — | — | May 21 | Jul 23 – Oct 1 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | May 21 | Jul 23 – Oct 1 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 7 | Jul 9 – Sep 10 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | May 21 | Jul 30 – Oct 1 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | May 21 | Aug 6 – Oct 1 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | May 21 | Jul 16 – Sep 10 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 7 | Jun 18 – Aug 20 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | May 21 | Jul 23 – Oct 1 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 19 | May 21 | Jun 4 | Jul 30 – Oct 1 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | May 21 | Jul 30 – Oct 1 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 21 | Sep 24 – Oct 15 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | May 21 | Aug 20 – Oct 15 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Burke County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Burke County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Burke County, ND?
Burke County is in USDA Hardiness Zone 4a. This zone classification determines which perennial plants survive winter and sets the baseline for frost timing across the county.
When is the last frost in Burke County, ND?
Based on 30 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Burke County falls around May 14. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between April 30 and May 27 — a 27-day window of variability. Use May 27 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Burke County, ND?
The median first fall frost in Burke County arrives around September 24. In cold years it can arrive as early as September 13; in mild years as late as October 10. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Burke County?
Burke County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 133 days. Focus on short-season varieties and start warm-season crops indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost. Climate records show the growing season is trending longer by about 1.58 days per decade.
What is the soil like in Burke County for gardening?
Burke County has predominantly Loam soil with a pH range of 6.8–7.6 and Well Drained drainage. Most vegetables and herbs grow well with standard composting and seasonal soil amendment.
What is grown commercially in Burke County?
Burke County has commercial agriculture that includes Wheat, Corn, Soybeans, Hay, Cattle. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Burke County a good location for home gardening?
Burke County scores 51/100 (Moderate) on our Microclimate Index, which combines frost reliability, drought pressure, soil challenge, elevation risk, and long-term climate trend. Conditions here are moderate — most common crops grow well with standard timing and care.
Your Burke County Garden Planner — Free
A 24-page printable planner built for Burke County (Zone 4a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.
The Gardener's Encyclopedia to Companion Planting
The pairings that make vegetables, herbs, and flowers grow better — and the ones that quietly wreck a bed.
- Proven pairings for 200+ vegetables, herbs, flowers, and fruits
- Full seed-starting + planting schedule with timing and spacing
- Bonus: square-foot gardening guide + printable seasonal planners
Seed Saving & Storage Guide
Most saved seeds go bad before next season. This shows exactly when to pick, how to dry, and where to store seeds from 200 plants so yours don't.
- 200 plants, step-by-step: life cycle, pollination type, isolation
- Exact temperature + humidity ranges that keep seeds viable
- Bonus: searchable Google Sheets tracker + custom GPT assistant
Composting Guide for Homesteaders
Turn kitchen scraps and yard waste into compost that actually feeds the garden — instead of a pile that smells, attracts pests, and never breaks down.
- 14 sections on composting methods, soil science, and troubleshooting
- The 7-step hot-compost system from start to finish
- Bonus tools: troubleshooting chart, safety guide, monitoring log