Benedict, ND — Planting Guide for July
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
Your July planting checklist for McLean County, North Dakota
Here's what deserves your attention in McLean County, North Dakota this month. Everything below is tailored to Zone 4a and timed around your local frost dates.
-
Get basil, peppers, and pole beans seeds going inside
A seed-starting mix and a sunny window (or a grow light) are all you need. Keep soil warm — around 70°F — for fast germination.
-
Harvest basil, carrots, and cucumber as they ripen
The more you pick, the more the plant produces. Letting fruit overripen tells the plant it's time to stop.
-
Kick off the fall garden with carrots, kale, and lettuce
Keep young seedlings shaded and moist in summer heat. A row of taller crops works as natural shade.
To set up a strong August, finish these tasks
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
- Fall sowing: alliums, crocus, and daffodils
Benedict gardens in a dry climate (only 17" annual precipitation). Watering strategy matters more here than in most of the country — drip irrigation, deep mulching, and morning watering aren't optional, they're table stakes. The flip side: pest and disease pressure are far lower than in humid regions, and your soil temperatures climb fast in spring so you can plant heat-lovers earlier than the zone map suggests.
Soils trend Loam — the gold standard for vegetables. Add 2–3" of compost annually to maintain it and you'll outgrow most of your neighbors.
Benedict averages 24.0 drought weeks per year (US Drought Monitor, 2000–present, trend stable). Treat irrigation as a year-round system, not a summer add-on.
🌡️ USDA Zone
4a (-30°F to -25°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
May 12
🍂 Avg. First Frost
September 30
📅 Growing Season
141 days
🌧️ Climate
Semi Arid 16.8" annual
💨 Wind
Breezy 10.2 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
24.0 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Benedict
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
What this means for you: In Benedict, the watering question isn't "how often" — it's "is the soil moist 4 inches down?" Stick a finger in. Dry? Water. Damp? Wait. The 17" annual rainfall is just the starting context.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 1.5 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.4 in | 5 days | — | None |
| Mar | 1.9 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Apr | 2.4 in | 7 days | 1.9 in | High |
| May | 2.5 in | 8 days | 1.8 in | High |
| Jun | 1.5 in | 4 days | 2.8 in | High |
| Jul | 1.9 in | 6 days | 2.4 in | High |
| Aug | 2.4 in | 7 days | 1.9 in | High |
| Sep | 1.8 in | 6 days | 2.5 in | High |
| Oct | 1.9 in | 6 days | 2.4 in | High |
| Nov | 1.3 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Dec | 1 in | 6 days | — | None |
Annual total: 21.5 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.
Benedict Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.6-7.8
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 31 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 21 | Oct 12 | 144 days |
| Cautious | May 15 | Oct 4 | 142 days |
| Average year | May 12 | Sep 30 | 141 days |
| Optimistic | May 4 | Sep 22 | 141 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 27 | Sep 13 | 139 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±24 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 2.2 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
McLean County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in McLean 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 McLean County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
McLean 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 McLean County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in McLean County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to McLean 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 McLean County ND" or "garden center McLean 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 McLean County ND" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "McLean 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 in Benedict
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Why it matters: The longest day at Benedict's latitude gets longer the further north you go. Strawberries, garlic, onions all care. The shortest day gets shorter — which limits winter growing for greens without artificial light.
Longest Day
15.8 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
8.2 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 | 8.6 hr | 4.8 hr | Short day |
| February | 10 hr | 6.1 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.6 hr | 7.3 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.4 hr | 8.1 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.9 hr | 9.4 hr | Long day |
| June | 15.8 hr | 10.9 hr | Long day |
| July | 15.4 hr | 11.5 hr | Long day |
| August | 14.1 hr | 9.5 hr | Long day |
| September | 12.3 hr | 8.4 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.6 hr | 7.1 hr | Short day |
| November | 9 hr | 5.3 hr | Short day |
| December | 8.2 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 in Benedict
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Why this matters: Mulched soil swings less. The mulch insulates against both winter cold and summer heat. In Benedict, an aggressive mulch program shifts your effective soil temperature curve toward optimal for most crops.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from Jun through Sep.
Best Month to Compost
Jul
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
6 months
Solid season. Piles go dormant in winter.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 14°F | 24°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 18°F | 21°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 26°F | 29°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 42°F | 38°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| May | 54°F | 51°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 65°F | 58°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jul | 72°F | 66°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 74°F | 68°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 66°F | 64°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 52°F | 56°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 35°F | 44°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Dec | 20°F | 30°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 Benedict
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
What this means for you: Two gardeners can grow identical seeds and get wildly different results based on pest pressure alone. Benedict's climate sets a floor on what's possible without intervention.
Insect Pest Pressure
Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.
Disease Risk
Low disease risk — dry conditions reduce fungal problems.
Seasonal Risk
View 5 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Cabbage worms | Low | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Colorado potato beetle | Moderate | Jun, Jul |
| Flea beetles | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul |
| Slugs | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
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 Benedict
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
Why this matters: Cover crops do four things at once: fix nitrogen (legumes), suppress weeds (any), prevent erosion, and add organic matter when chopped down. Benedict's seasonal pattern determines which species fit which gap.
Spring Cover Crops (2 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | May 19 | Jul 22 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| White clover | Apr 16 | Aug 5 | ✓ 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 12 | Sep 2 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Fall Cover Crops (5 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Daikon radish | Aug 6 | Apr 28 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 7 | Apr 21 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Aug 16 | Apr 21 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 10 | Apr 21 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 11 | Apr 21 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Benedict
Why this matters: Light wind is good (strengthens stems, aids pollination); strong wind is bad (snaps stems, dries leaves, scatters seeds). Benedict averages 10.2 mph. If you garden near coast, ridge, or open plains, you're likely above that — plan for it.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 17 mph Summer: 13 mph
Fall: 14 mph Winter: 14 mph
Prevailing wind: S. Windy area — plant a windbreak hedge on the S side of your garden.
Windbreak Benefit
9.2/10
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 (301 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Benedict
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Quick context: Rainwater is unchlorinated, unfluoridated, and at ambient temperature — plants actually prefer it. Benedict's 17" annual rainfall means even a small 50-gallon barrel catches enough for a few weeks of garden watering between storms.
Annual Collection
10,715 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
Mar, Apr, May, Aug
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Feb, Nov, 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 21.5 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 10,715 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Feb, Nov, Dec)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Benedict
95 vegetables matched to Zone 4a with planting dates calibrated for Benedict.
Show all 95 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 31 | May 26 | Jun 2 | — | Aug 25 – Sep 29 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 10 | May 26 | Jun 2 | — | Sep 1 – Oct 20 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jul 8 | Jun 16 – Aug 18 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 26 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | May 5 | — | Jul 8 | Jun 30 – Jul 28 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jul 8 | Sep 1 – Oct 6 | 110–150 |
| Black Beans | — | May 26 | — | — | Aug 25 – Oct 13 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jul 8 | Jun 23 – Jul 28 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jul 8 | Jul 14 – Aug 25 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jul 8 | Jun 23 – Jul 28 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jul 8 | Aug 11 – Oct 6 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 31 | May 26 | Jun 2 | — | Sep 1 – Oct 6 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jul 8 | Jul 14 – Sep 8 | 60–100 |
| Carrots | — | May 5 | — | Jul 8 | Jul 7 – Aug 11 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jul 8 | Jul 7 – Sep 8 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jul 8 | Aug 25 – Sep 29 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jul 8 | Aug 4 – Sep 29 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jul 8 | Jul 14 – Aug 25 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jul 8 | Jul 7 – Aug 25 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jul 8 | Aug 4 – Sep 15 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jul 8 | Jul 14 – Aug 25 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jul 8 | Jul 7 – Aug 4 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 10 | May 26 | Jun 2 | — | Aug 25 – Sep 29 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jul 8 | Jul 7 – Sep 8 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | May 26 | — | — | Jul 28 – Sep 22 | 60–100 |
| Cress | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jul 8 | May 26 – Jun 16 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 31 | May 26 | Jun 2 | — | Jul 21 – Aug 18 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | May 5 | — | Jul 8 | Oct 6 – Sep 29 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 31 | May 26 | Jun 2 | — | Jul 28 – Sep 22 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | May 5 | — | Jul 8 | Jun 30 – Jul 28 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 31 | May 26 | Jun 2 | — | Aug 25 – Sep 29 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | May 26 | — | — | Aug 11 – Sep 22 | 75–100 |
| Endive | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jul 8 | Jun 30 – Aug 4 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jul 8 | Jul 7 – Aug 4 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jul 8 | Jul 28 – Sep 8 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 10 | May 26 | Jun 2 | — | Aug 4 – Sep 15 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Aug 19 | Nov 18 – Jan 13 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | May 26 | — | — | Jul 21 – Sep 15 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 26 | — | Sep 29 – Oct 20 | 120–180 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 31 | May 26 | Jun 2 | — | Sep 15 – Oct 20 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Mar 31 | May 26 | Jun 2 | — | Sep 1 – Sep 29 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jul 8 | Jun 30 – Jul 28 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jul 8 | Jul 7 – Sep 1 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | May 26 | — | — | Aug 25 – Sep 29 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jul 8 | Jun 30 – Aug 4 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jul 8 | Jun 16 – Jul 21 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jul 8 | Aug 11 – Oct 6 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jul 8 | Aug 4 – Sep 15 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jul 8 | Jun 16 – Aug 25 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | May 26 | — | — | Jul 28 – Sep 8 | 60–90 |
| Mache | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jul 8 | Jun 23 – Jul 28 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Mar 31 | May 26 | Jun 2 | — | Aug 11 – Sep 29 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jul 8 | May 19 – Jun 16 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 5 | Jul 8 | Jun 30 – Aug 25 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jul 8 | Jun 16 – Jul 14 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jul 8 | Jun 16 – Aug 18 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jul 8 | Jul 7 – Aug 11 | 55–75 |
| Onion | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jul 8 | Aug 11 – Sep 29 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jul 8 | Jun 23 – Jul 21 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | May 5 | — | Jul 8 | Aug 18 – Sep 29 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 31 | May 26 | Jun 2 | — | Jul 21 – Aug 18 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jul 8 | Jul 7 – Sep 1 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 24 | May 26 | Jun 2 | — | Aug 4 – Oct 13 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 10 | May 26 | Jun 2 | — | Jul 28 – Sep 22 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 10 | May 26 | Jun 2 | — | Aug 11 – Oct 20 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 31 | May 26 | Jun 2 | — | Sep 1 – Oct 20 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jul 8 | Jun 23 – Jul 28 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jul 8 | Jul 14 – Aug 18 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | May 5 | — | Jul 8 | Jun 2 – Jun 23 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Jun 9 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jul 8 | Jul 28 – Sep 8 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | May 5 | — | Jul 8 | Jul 28 – Sep 1 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | May 5 | — | Jul 8 | Aug 18 – Sep 29 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jul 8 | Jul 21 – Sep 15 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jul 8 | Jul 7 – Aug 4 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 10 | May 26 | Jun 2 | — | Aug 4 – Sep 8 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jul 8 | Aug 11 – Sep 29 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 17 | May 19 | Jun 2 | — | Jul 28 – Sep 22 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 10 | May 26 | Jun 2 | — | Jul 28 – Sep 22 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jul 8 | Jul 7 – Sep 1 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | May 26 | — | — | Aug 18 – Oct 13 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 31 | May 26 | Jun 2 | — | Sep 1 – Sep 29 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jul 8 | Jun 16 – Aug 18 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 31 | May 26 | Jun 2 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 22 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 31 | May 26 | Jun 2 | — | Aug 25 – Oct 20 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 26 | — | Sep 15 – Oct 20 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | May 26 | — | — | Jul 28 – Sep 8 | 60–90 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jul 8 | Jun 16 – Jul 21 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 10 | May 26 | Jun 2 | — | Aug 4 – Oct 13 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 10 | May 26 | Jun 2 | — | Aug 4 – Oct 13 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | May 5 | — | Jul 8 | Jun 16 – Jul 21 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 12 | Jul 8 | Jun 23 – Jul 28 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 31 | May 26 | Jun 2 | — | Aug 11 – Sep 29 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | May 26 | — | — | Jul 21 – Sep 15 | 50–65 |
| Zucchini | Mar 31 | May 26 | Jun 2 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 15 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Benedict
22 fruits matched to Zone 4a with planting dates calibrated for Benedict.
Show all 22 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Jun 9 | — | Sep 8 – Nov 3 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Jun 9 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Jun 9 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Jun 9 | — | Aug 18 – Sep 22 | 70–90 |
| Cranberries | — | — | Jun 9 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | Jun 9 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Jun 9 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Jun 9 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Jun 9 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Jun 9 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Jun 9 | — | Aug 18 – Oct 13 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Jun 9 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | Jun 9 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Jun 9 | — | Sep 1 – Oct 13 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Jun 9 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | Jun 9 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | Jun 9 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Jun 9 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Jun 9 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Jun 9 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Jun 9 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Jun 9 | — | Sep 8 – Nov 3 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Benedict
30 herbs matched to Zone 4a with planting dates calibrated for Benedict.
Show all 30 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 5 | Jul 8 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 5 | Jul 8 | Aug 4 – Sep 29 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 17 | May 19 | Jun 2 | — | Jul 28 – Sep 29 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 19 | — | Aug 18 – Oct 13 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 5 | Jul 8 | Jun 30 – Aug 18 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 5 | Jul 8 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 19 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 22 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 5 | Jul 8 | Jul 7 – Sep 15 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 5 | Jul 8 | Jun 16 – Aug 18 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 19 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 29 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 5 | Jul 8 | Jun 16 – Aug 18 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 19 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 29 | 60–90 |
| Dill | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 5 | Jul 8 | Jun 16 – Aug 18 | 40–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 5 | Jul 8 | Jul 7 – Sep 15 | 60–90 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | May 19 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 29 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | May 19 | — | Aug 4 – Sep 29 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | May 19 | — | Jul 28 – Sep 29 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | May 19 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 8 | 60–70 |
| Lovage | — | — | May 19 | — | Jul 28 – Sep 29 | 70–90 |
| Mint | — | — | May 19 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 29 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | May 19 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 29 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 5 | Jul 8 | Jul 7 – Sep 8 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | May 19 | — | Jul 28 – Sep 29 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | May 19 | — | Aug 4 – Sep 29 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | May 19 | — | Jul 14 – Sep 8 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 31 | May 5 | May 5 | Jul 8 | Jun 16 – Aug 18 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | May 19 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 29 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 17 | May 19 | Jun 2 | — | Jul 28 – Sep 29 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | May 19 | — | Jul 28 – Sep 29 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 19 | — | Sep 22 – Oct 13 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Benedict
49 flowers matched to Zone 4a with planting dates calibrated for Benedict.
Show all 49 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Mar 17 | May 19 | May 19 | — | Jul 14 – Sep 22 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Aug 19 | Sep 30 – Oct 21 | 28–42 |
| Astilbe | Mar 3 | — | May 26 | — | Aug 18 – Oct 13 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 12 | — | Jul 14 – Sep 15 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Feb 24 | — | May 26 | — | Aug 4 – Oct 6 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Mar 3 | May 12 | May 26 | — | Aug 18 – Oct 27 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Mar 3 | — | May 26 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 1 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 12 | — | Jun 30 – Sep 15 | 50–70 |
| Celosia | Mar 31 | May 26 | May 26 | — | Jul 28 – Oct 13 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Mar 3 | May 26 | May 26 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 1 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Mar 3 | May 19 | May 26 | — | Aug 11 – Oct 27 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Apr 14 | May 19 | May 19 | — | Jul 28 – Oct 13 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Aug 19 | Jun 24 – Jul 15 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Aug 19 | Jul 1 – Jul 22 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Apr 14 | May 26 | May 26 | — | Aug 25 – Oct 27 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Mar 3 | — | May 26 | — | Aug 25 – Oct 27 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Mar 10 | Apr 21 | May 5 | — | Jun 23 – Aug 25 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Mar 3 | May 26 | May 26 | — | Aug 25 – Oct 27 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Mar 3 | May 26 | May 26 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 1 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Mar 17 | May 26 | May 26 | — | Aug 4 – Nov 3 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Feb 24 | — | May 26 | — | Aug 4 – Oct 6 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | May 19 | May 19 | — | Aug 18 – Oct 20 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Feb 24 | — | May 26 | — | Aug 25 – Oct 27 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Aug 19 | Jul 22 – Aug 12 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Feb 24 | — | May 26 | — | Aug 18 – Oct 13 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Mar 10 | — | May 26 | — | Aug 11 – Oct 6 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | May 26 | — | Jul 21 – Aug 18 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Apr 7 | — | — | Jun 16 – Jul 28 | 60–90 |
| Lilies | — | Division | May 26 | — | Aug 18 – Oct 20 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Mar 3 | — | May 12 | — | Jul 7 – Sep 1 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Mar 3 | May 26 | May 26 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 1 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Mar 31 | May 26 | May 26 | — | Jul 21 – Oct 6 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Apr 14 | May 26 | May 26 | — | Jul 21 – Oct 6 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Feb 24 | — | May 12 | — | Jul 7 – Aug 25 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | May 26 | — | Aug 4 – Sep 8 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Mar 10 | — | May 26 | — | Aug 11 – Oct 13 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Mar 3 | May 26 | May 26 | — | Aug 18 – Oct 20 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 31 | May 26 | May 26 | — | Jul 14 – Sep 22 | 50–70 |
| Roses | Feb 24 | — | May 26 | — | Aug 18 – Oct 27 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Mar 3 | — | May 26 | — | Aug 4 – Oct 6 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Mar 3 | — | May 26 | — | Sep 29 – Nov 17 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Feb 24 | — | May 12 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 15 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Apr 21 | May 26 | May 26 | — | Aug 18 – Oct 13 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Mar 17 | May 5 | May 12 | — | Jun 23 – Aug 25 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | Mar 24 | Apr 7 | May 12 | — | Aug 4 – Sep 15 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Aug 19 | Jul 15 – Aug 5 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Feb 24 | — | May 26 | — | Aug 4 – Oct 6 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Mar 3 | May 12 | May 26 | — | Aug 11 – Oct 27 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Apr 14 | May 26 | May 26 | — | Aug 4 – Oct 13 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Benedict
ZIP Codes in Benedict
Click any ZIP to see its specific frost, soil, and climate measurements (some ZIPs differ noticeably from the town aggregate):
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in McLean County.
Your McLean County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for McLean 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