Swift Current, SK — Planting Guide
Swift Current is in USDA Zone 4a. The average last spring frost is May 16 and the first fall frost is October 3, giving you a growing season of approximately 140 days.
At an elevation of 2,680 ft, Swift Current receives approximately 15.3 in of rainfall annually. The predominant soil type is Dark Brown Chernozem.
🌡️ Zone
4a (-30°F to -25°F min)
❄️ Last Frost
May 16
🍂 First Frost
October 3
📅 Growing Season
140 days
⛰️ Elevation
2,680 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
15.3 in
Monthly Watering Calendar for Swift Current
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
Why this matters: Watering by the calendar wastes water. Watering by the soil moisture (or by a free rain gauge) cuts your water use 30%+ and produces healthier roots. Swift Current's 15" annual baseline is the starting point.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 0.7 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Feb | 0.5 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Mar | 1.1 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Apr | 1.5 in | 8 days | 2.8 in | High |
| May | 1.9 in | 9 days | 2.4 in | High |
| Jun | 1.8 in | 11 days | 2.5 in | High |
| Jul | 1.8 in | 9 days | 2.5 in | High |
| Aug | 1.6 in | 9 days | 2.7 in | High |
| Sep | 1.3 in | 7 days | 3 in | High |
| Oct | 1.2 in | 8 days | 3.1 in | Critical |
| Nov | 0.9 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Dec | 0.8 in | 7 days | — | None |
Annual total: 15.1 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.
Swift Current Soil Profile
Soil Type
Dark Brown Chernozem
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Gardening Difficulty Score
Swift Current is a very forgiving place to garden. Most plants thrive here with minimal effort.
Local Gardening Help in Swift Current
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 Swift Current's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Swift Current Extension Office
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 Swift Current
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Swift Current
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Swift Current'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 Swift Current SK" or "garden center Swift Current" 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 Swift Current SK" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Swift Current Gardeners" or "Saskatchewan 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 Swift Current
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Why this matters: Day length triggers flowering in many crops. Some need short days (sweet potatoes), some long (most flowers), and some are day-neutral (most modern tomatoes). Swift Current's latitude determines which varieties fit your beds.
Longest Day
16.2 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
7.8 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
10.6 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 | 8.3 hr | 3.4 hr | Short day |
| February | 9.8 hr | 4.5 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.5 hr | 5.2 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.5 hr | 7.1 hr | Neutral |
| May | 15.2 hr | 9.2 hr | Long day |
| June | 16.2 hr | 9.8 hr | Long day |
| July | 15.8 hr | 10.6 hr | Long day |
| August | 14.3 hr | 8.5 hr | Long day |
| September | 12.4 hr | 7.5 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.4 hr | 5.2 hr | Short day |
| November | 8.7 hr | 3.5 hr | Short day |
| December | 7.8 hr | 3.1 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Swift Current
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
What this means for you: Watching soil temperature (not air) is the single biggest upgrade most new gardeners can make. Swift Current's typical curve helps you plan — but a $5 soil thermometer in the bed beats any average.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from Jul 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 | 9°F | 18°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 8°F | 16°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 21°F | 21°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 36°F | 32°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| May | 50°F | 42°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Jun | 58°F | 54°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jul | 67°F | 60°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 68°F | 63°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 59°F | 57°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Oct | 47°F | 49°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Nov | 30°F | 36°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Dec | 16°F | 24°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 Swift Current
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Why this matters: In Swift Current's climate, pest pressure shapes which crops are easy and which are heartbreak. Tomatoes are easy in dry mountain air, hard in humid coast — same plant, completely different gardening experience.
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 | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Colorado potato beetle | Moderate | Jun, Jul |
| Flea beetles | Low | 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 Swift Current
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
The practical takeaway: Why not just leave bare soil? Weed seeds, erosion, nutrient leaching, and crust formation. A cover crop solves all of these for the cost of seeds and one mowing.
Spring Cover Crops (2 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | May 29 | Jul 25 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| White clover | Apr 21 | Aug 1 | ✓ 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 8 | Sep 5 | — | 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 11 | May 2 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 10 | Apr 25 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Aug 27 | May 2 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jun 30 | May 2 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 6 | May 2 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Swift Current
Why it matters: Light wind is good (strengthens stems, aids pollination); strong wind is bad (snaps stems, dries leaves, scatters seeds). Swift Current averages 9.9 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: 13 mph Summer: 10 mph
Fall: 9 mph Winter: 12 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
5.5/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (131 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Swift Current
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Quick context: Most gardens use 0.5-1 gallon per square foot per week in summer. Swift Current's 15" annual rainfall is enough to cover most needs if you can capture it. Rain barrels under downspouts are the simplest entry point.
Annual Collection
7,525 gal
Per 1,000 sq ft of roof area (at 80% collection efficiency)
Recommended Setup
8 rain barrels (55 gal each)
For a typical 500 sq ft garden. Serious collectors: consider a 2,250 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
May, Jun, Jul, Aug
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Jan, 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 15.1 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 7,525 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- In your dry climate, every drop counts — consider a larger cistern system
- Position collection tanks in shade to reduce evaporation and algae growth
Soil & Growing Conditions in Swift Current
Soil Type
Dark Brown Chernozem
Amend with compost each season to maintain fertility and structure.
Watering Needs
With 15.3 inches annually, regular irrigation is essential. Drip systems and heavy mulching conserve water.
Season Tips
140-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 22-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 Swift Current
95 vegetables that grow well in Zone 4a with planting dates for Swift Current.
Show all 95 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Apr 4 | May 30 | Jun 6 | — | Aug 29 – Oct 3 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 14 | May 30 | Jun 6 | — | Sep 5 – Oct 24 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Apr 4 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 11 | Jun 20 – Aug 22 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 30 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | May 9 | — | Jul 11 | Jul 4 – Aug 1 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Apr 4 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 11 | Sep 5 – Oct 10 | 110–150 |
| Black Beans | — | May 30 | — | — | Aug 29 – Oct 17 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Apr 4 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 11 | Jun 27 – Aug 1 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Apr 4 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 11 | Jul 18 – Aug 29 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Apr 4 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 11 | Jun 27 – Aug 1 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Apr 4 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 11 | Aug 15 – Oct 10 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Apr 4 | May 30 | Jun 6 | — | Sep 5 – Oct 10 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Apr 4 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 11 | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 60–100 |
| Carrots | — | May 9 | — | Jul 11 | Jul 11 – Aug 15 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Apr 4 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 11 | Jul 11 – Sep 12 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Apr 4 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 11 | Aug 29 – Oct 3 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Apr 4 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 11 | Aug 8 – Oct 3 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Apr 4 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 11 | Jul 18 – Aug 29 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Apr 4 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 11 | Jul 11 – Aug 29 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Apr 4 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 11 | Aug 8 – Sep 19 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Apr 4 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 11 | Jul 18 – Aug 29 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Apr 4 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 11 | Jul 11 – Aug 8 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 14 | May 30 | Jun 6 | — | Aug 29 – Oct 3 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Apr 4 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 11 | Jul 11 – Sep 12 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | May 30 | — | — | Aug 1 – Sep 26 | 60–100 |
| Cress | Apr 4 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 11 | May 30 – Jun 20 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Apr 4 | May 30 | Jun 6 | — | Jul 25 – Aug 22 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | May 9 | — | Jul 11 | Oct 10 – Oct 3 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Apr 4 | May 30 | Jun 6 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 26 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | May 9 | — | Jul 11 | Jul 4 – Aug 1 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Apr 4 | May 30 | Jun 6 | — | Aug 29 – Oct 3 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | May 30 | — | — | Aug 15 – Sep 26 | 75–100 |
| Endive | Apr 4 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 11 | Jul 4 – Aug 8 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Apr 4 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 11 | Jul 11 – Aug 8 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Apr 4 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 11 | Aug 1 – Sep 12 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 14 | May 30 | Jun 6 | — | Aug 8 – Sep 19 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Aug 22 | Nov 21 – Jan 16 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | May 30 | — | — | Jul 25 – Sep 19 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 30 | — | Oct 3 – Oct 24 | 120–180 |
| Hubbard Squash | Apr 4 | May 30 | Jun 6 | — | Sep 19 – Oct 24 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Apr 4 | May 30 | Jun 6 | — | Sep 5 – Oct 3 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Apr 4 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 11 | Jul 4 – Aug 1 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Apr 4 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 11 | Jul 11 – Sep 5 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | May 30 | — | — | Aug 29 – Oct 3 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Apr 4 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 11 | Jul 4 – Aug 8 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Apr 4 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 11 | Jun 20 – Jul 25 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Apr 4 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 11 | Aug 15 – Oct 10 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Apr 4 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 11 | Aug 8 – Sep 19 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Apr 4 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 11 | Jun 20 – Aug 29 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | May 30 | — | — | Aug 1 – Sep 12 | 60–90 |
| Mache | Apr 4 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 11 | Jun 27 – Aug 1 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Apr 4 | May 30 | Jun 6 | — | Aug 15 – Oct 3 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Apr 4 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 11 | May 23 – Jun 20 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Apr 4 | May 9 | May 9 | Jul 11 | Jul 4 – Aug 29 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Apr 4 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 11 | Jun 20 – Jul 18 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Apr 4 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 11 | Jun 20 – Aug 22 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Apr 4 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 11 | Jul 11 – Aug 15 | 55–75 |
| Onion | Apr 4 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 11 | Aug 15 – Oct 3 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Apr 4 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 11 | Jun 27 – Jul 25 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | May 9 | — | Jul 11 | Aug 22 – Oct 3 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Apr 4 | May 30 | Jun 6 | — | Jul 25 – Aug 22 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Apr 4 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 11 | Jul 11 – Sep 5 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 28 | May 30 | Jun 6 | — | Aug 8 – Oct 17 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 14 | May 30 | Jun 6 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 26 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 14 | May 30 | Jun 6 | — | Aug 15 – Oct 24 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Apr 4 | May 30 | Jun 6 | — | Sep 5 – Oct 24 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Apr 4 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 11 | Jun 27 – Aug 1 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Apr 4 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 11 | Jul 18 – Aug 22 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | May 9 | — | Jul 11 | Jun 6 – Jun 27 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Jun 13 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Apr 4 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 11 | Aug 1 – Sep 12 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | May 9 | — | Jul 11 | Aug 1 – Sep 5 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | May 9 | — | Jul 11 | Aug 22 – Oct 3 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Apr 4 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 11 | Jul 25 – Sep 19 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Apr 4 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 11 | Jul 11 – Aug 8 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 14 | May 30 | Jun 6 | — | Aug 8 – Sep 12 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Apr 4 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 11 | Aug 15 – Oct 3 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 21 | May 23 | Jun 6 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 26 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 14 | May 30 | Jun 6 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 26 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Apr 4 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 11 | Jul 11 – Sep 5 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | May 30 | — | — | Aug 22 – Oct 17 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Apr 4 | May 30 | Jun 6 | — | Sep 5 – Oct 3 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Apr 4 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 11 | Jun 20 – Aug 22 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Apr 4 | May 30 | Jun 6 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 26 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Apr 4 | May 30 | Jun 6 | — | Aug 29 – Oct 24 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 30 | — | Sep 19 – Oct 24 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | May 30 | — | — | Aug 1 – Sep 12 | 60–90 |
| Tatsoi | Apr 4 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 11 | Jun 20 – Jul 25 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 14 | May 30 | Jun 6 | — | Aug 8 – Oct 17 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 14 | May 30 | Jun 6 | — | Aug 8 – Oct 17 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | May 9 | — | Jul 11 | Jun 20 – Jul 25 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Apr 4 | May 9 | May 16 | Jul 11 | Jun 27 – Aug 1 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Apr 4 | May 30 | Jun 6 | — | Aug 15 – Oct 3 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | May 30 | — | — | Jul 25 – Sep 19 | 50–65 |
| Zucchini | Apr 4 | May 30 | Jun 6 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 19 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Swift Current
22 fruits that grow well in Zone 4a with planting dates for Swift Current.
Show all 22 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Jun 13 | — | Sep 12 – Nov 7 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Jun 13 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Jun 13 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Jun 13 | — | Aug 22 – Sep 26 | 70–90 |
| Cranberries | — | — | Jun 13 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | Jun 13 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Jun 13 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Jun 13 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Jun 13 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Jun 13 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Jun 13 | — | Aug 22 – Oct 17 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Jun 13 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | Jun 13 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Jun 13 | — | Sep 5 – Oct 17 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Jun 13 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | Jun 13 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | Jun 13 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Jun 13 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Jun 13 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Jun 13 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Jun 13 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Jun 13 | — | Sep 12 – Nov 7 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Swift Current
30 herbs that grow well in Zone 4a with planting dates for Swift Current.
Show all 30 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Apr 4 | May 9 | May 9 | Jul 11 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Apr 4 | May 9 | May 9 | Jul 11 | Aug 8 – Oct 3 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 21 | May 23 | Jun 6 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 3 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 23 | — | Aug 22 – Oct 17 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Apr 4 | May 9 | May 9 | Jul 11 | Jul 4 – Aug 22 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Apr 4 | May 9 | May 9 | Jul 11 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 23 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 26 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Apr 4 | May 9 | May 9 | Jul 11 | Jul 11 – Sep 19 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Apr 4 | May 9 | May 9 | Jul 11 | Jun 20 – Aug 22 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 23 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 3 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Apr 4 | May 9 | May 9 | Jul 11 | Jun 20 – Aug 22 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 23 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 3 | 60–90 |
| Dill | Apr 4 | May 9 | May 9 | Jul 11 | Jun 20 – Aug 22 | 40–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Apr 4 | May 9 | May 9 | Jul 11 | Jul 11 – Sep 19 | 60–90 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | May 23 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 3 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | May 23 | — | Aug 8 – Oct 3 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | May 23 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 3 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | May 23 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 12 | 60–70 |
| Lovage | — | — | May 23 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 3 | 70–90 |
| Mint | — | — | May 23 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 3 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | May 23 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 3 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Apr 4 | May 9 | May 9 | Jul 11 | Jul 11 – Sep 12 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | May 23 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 3 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | May 23 | — | Aug 8 – Oct 3 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | May 23 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Apr 4 | May 9 | May 9 | Jul 11 | Jun 20 – Aug 22 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | May 23 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 3 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 21 | May 23 | Jun 6 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 3 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | May 23 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 3 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 23 | — | Sep 26 – Oct 17 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Swift Current
49 flowers that grow well in Zone 4a with planting dates for Swift Current.
Show all 49 flowers with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Mar 21 | May 23 | May 23 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 26 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Aug 22 | Oct 3 – Oct 24 | 28–42 |
| Astilbe | Mar 7 | — | May 30 | — | Aug 22 – Oct 17 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 16 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 19 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Feb 28 | — | May 30 | — | Aug 8 – Oct 10 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Mar 7 | May 16 | May 30 | — | Aug 22 – Oct 31 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Mar 7 | — | May 30 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 5 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Mar 28 | May 2 | May 16 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 19 | 50–70 |
| Celosia | Apr 4 | May 30 | May 30 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 17 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Mar 7 | May 30 | May 30 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 5 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Mar 7 | May 23 | May 30 | — | Aug 15 – Oct 31 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Apr 18 | May 23 | May 23 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 17 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Aug 22 | Jun 27 – Jul 18 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Aug 22 | Jul 4 – Jul 25 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Apr 18 | May 30 | May 30 | — | Aug 29 – Oct 31 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Mar 7 | — | May 30 | — | Aug 29 – Oct 31 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Mar 14 | Apr 25 | May 9 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 29 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Mar 7 | May 30 | May 30 | — | Aug 29 – Oct 31 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Mar 7 | May 30 | May 30 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 5 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Mar 21 | May 30 | May 30 | — | Aug 8 – Nov 7 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Feb 28 | — | May 30 | — | Aug 8 – Oct 10 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | May 23 | May 23 | — | Aug 22 – Oct 24 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Feb 28 | — | May 30 | — | Aug 29 – Oct 31 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Aug 22 | Jul 25 – Aug 15 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Feb 28 | — | May 30 | — | Aug 22 – Oct 17 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Mar 14 | — | May 30 | — | Aug 15 – Oct 10 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | May 30 | — | Jul 25 – Aug 22 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Apr 11 | — | — | Jun 20 – Aug 1 | 60–90 |
| Lilies | — | Division | May 30 | — | Aug 22 – Oct 24 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Mar 7 | — | May 16 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 5 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Mar 7 | May 30 | May 30 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 5 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Apr 4 | May 30 | May 30 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 10 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Apr 18 | May 30 | May 30 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 10 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Feb 28 | — | May 16 | — | Jul 11 – Aug 29 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | May 30 | — | Aug 8 – Sep 12 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Mar 14 | — | May 30 | — | Aug 15 – Oct 17 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Mar 7 | May 30 | May 30 | — | Aug 22 – Oct 24 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Apr 4 | May 30 | May 30 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 26 | 50–70 |
| Roses | Feb 28 | — | May 30 | — | Aug 22 – Oct 31 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Mar 7 | — | May 30 | — | Aug 8 – Oct 10 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Mar 7 | — | May 30 | — | Oct 3 – Nov 21 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Feb 28 | — | May 16 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 19 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Apr 25 | May 30 | May 30 | — | Aug 22 – Oct 17 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Mar 21 | May 9 | May 16 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 29 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | May 16 | — | Aug 8 – Sep 19 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Aug 22 | Jul 18 – Aug 8 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Feb 28 | — | May 30 | — | Aug 8 – Oct 10 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Mar 7 | May 16 | May 30 | — | Aug 15 – Oct 31 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Apr 18 | May 30 | May 30 | — | Aug 8 – Oct 17 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Swift Current
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Swift Current.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Swift Current, SK?
Swift Current 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 Swift Current, SK?
Based on 30 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Swift Current falls around May 16. Plan transplants and direct-sow dates relative to this date.
When is the first fall frost in Swift Current, SK?
The median first fall frost in Swift Current arrives around October 3. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
Is Swift Current a good location for home gardening?
Swift Current scores 80/100 (Excellent) on our Microclimate Index, which combines frost reliability, drought pressure, soil challenge, elevation risk, and long-term climate trend. This is an above-average location for home gardening with relatively predictable growing conditions.
Your Swift Current Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Swift Current (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