Hamlin County, SD — Planting Guide
Hamlin County is in USDA Zone 4a. The average last spring frost is May 6 and the first fall frost is October 3, giving you a growing season of approximately 150 days.
At an elevation of 729 ft, Hamlin County receives approximately 24.8 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 84°F with winter lows around 8°F. The predominant soil type is Loam.
Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 24 days year to year — ranging from April 21 in warm years to May 15 in cold years. Hamlin County scores 70/100 (Good) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
4a (-30°F to -25°F min)
❄️ Last Frost
May 6
🍂 First Frost
October 3
📅 Growing Season
150 days
⛰️ Elevation
729 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
24.8 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 | 0.7 in | 4 days | — | None |
| Feb | 0.9 in | 4 days | — | None |
| Mar | 1.7 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Apr | 2.5 in | 9 days | 1.8 in | High |
| May | 3.3 in | 11 days | 1 in | Moderate |
| Jun | 3.9 in | 10 days | 0.4 in | Low |
| Jul | 3.4 in | 8 days | 0.9 in | Moderate |
| Aug | 2.8 in | 7 days | 1.5 in | Moderate |
| Sep | 2.6 in | 6 days | 1.7 in | High |
| Oct | 1.5 in | 4 days | 2.8 in | High |
| Nov | 0.9 in | 4 days | — | None |
| Dec | 0.6 in | 4 days | — | None |
Annual total: 24.8 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.
Hamlin County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.7-7.7
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 15 | Oct 14 | 152 days |
| Cautious | May 11 | Oct 7 | 149 days |
| Average year | May 6 | Oct 3 | 150 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 27 | Sep 24 | 150 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 21 | Sep 19 | 151 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.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Hamlin County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Hamlin 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 Hamlin County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Hamlin County South Dakota State University Extension Extension Office
Phone: 605-688-4792
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 Hamlin County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Hamlin County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Hamlin 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 Hamlin County SD" or "garden center Hamlin 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 Hamlin County SD" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Hamlin County Gardeners" or "South 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
15.4 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
8.6 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
10.8 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 | 9 hr | 5.1 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.2 hr | 6.1 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.6 hr | 6.9 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.3 hr | 8 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.6 hr | 9.1 hr | Long day |
| June | 15.4 hr | 10.8 hr | Long day |
| July | 15.1 hr | 10.5 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.9 hr | 10.2 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.3 hr | 8 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.7 hr | 7.3 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.3 hr | 5.3 hr | Short day |
| December | 8.6 hr | 4.9 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 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 | 16°F | 24°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 16°F | 22°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 26°F | 30°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 40°F | 41°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| May | 53°F | 52°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 64°F | 61°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jul | 73°F | 66°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 73°F | 69°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 67°F | 64°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 51°F | 55°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 38°F | 45°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Dec | 22°F | 32°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 Hamlin 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 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 | Low | 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 Hamlin 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 15 | Aug 8 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| White clover | Apr 8 | Jul 25 | ✓ 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 5 | 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 23 | Apr 22 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 25 | Apr 22 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 3 | Apr 15 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 14 | Apr 22 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jun 30 | Apr 22 | — | 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: 13 mph
Fall: 13 mph Winter: 14 mph
Prevailing wind: S. Windy area — plant a windbreak hedge on the S side of your garden.
Windbreak Benefit
9/10
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 (351 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
12,360 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 2,000 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 24.8 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 12,360 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Jan, Feb, Nov)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
Soil & Growing Conditions in Hamlin County
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH 6.7–7.7 · Excessively Drained drainage
Native soil is well-suited to most vegetables and herbs with regular compost additions.
Watering Needs
Drought stress: 5.5/10
Moderate drought pressure. Drip irrigation and mulching are highly recommended to maintain soil moisture through summer.
Season Tips
150-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.
Free Garden Planner
Plan your entire garden season — organize planting dates, track what you're growing, and know exactly when to start seeds, transplant, and harvest.
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 Hamlin County
96 vegetables that grow well in Zone 4a with planting dates for Hamlin County.
Show all 96 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 25 | May 20 | May 27 | Aug 19 – Sep 23 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 4 | May 20 | May 27 | Aug 26 – Oct 14 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | Jun 10 – Aug 12 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 20 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Apr 29 | — | Jun 24 – Jul 22 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | Aug 26 – Sep 30 | 110–150 |
| Black Beans | — | May 20 | — | Aug 19 – Oct 7 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | Jun 17 – Jul 22 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | Jul 8 – Aug 19 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | Jun 17 – Jul 22 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | Aug 5 – Sep 30 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 25 | May 20 | May 27 | Aug 26 – Sep 30 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | Jul 8 – Sep 2 | 60–100 |
| Carrots | — | Apr 29 | — | Jul 1 – Aug 5 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | Jul 1 – Sep 2 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | Aug 19 – Sep 23 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | Jul 29 – Sep 23 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | Jul 8 – Aug 19 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | Jul 1 – Aug 19 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | Jul 29 – Sep 9 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | Jul 8 – Aug 19 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | Jul 1 – Jul 29 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 4 | May 20 | May 27 | Aug 19 – Sep 23 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | Jul 1 – Sep 2 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | May 20 | — | Jul 22 – Sep 16 | 60–100 |
| Cress | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | May 20 – Jun 10 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 25 | May 20 | May 27 | Jul 15 – Aug 12 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Apr 29 | — | Sep 30 – Sep 23 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 25 | May 20 | May 27 | Jul 22 – Sep 16 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Apr 29 | — | Jun 24 – Jul 22 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 25 | May 20 | May 27 | Aug 19 – Sep 23 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | May 20 | — | Aug 5 – Sep 16 | 75–100 |
| Endive | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | Jun 24 – Jul 29 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | Jul 1 – Jul 29 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | Jul 22 – Sep 2 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 4 | May 20 | May 27 | Jul 29 – Sep 9 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | May 20 | — | Jul 15 – Sep 9 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 20 | Sep 23 – Oct 14 | 120–180 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 25 | May 20 | May 27 | Sep 9 – Oct 14 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Mar 25 | May 20 | May 27 | Aug 26 – Sep 23 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | Jun 24 – Jul 22 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | Jul 1 – Aug 26 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | May 20 | — | Aug 19 – Sep 23 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | Jun 24 – Jul 29 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | Jun 10 – Jul 15 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | Aug 5 – Sep 30 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | Jul 29 – Sep 9 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | Jun 10 – Aug 19 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | May 20 | — | Jul 22 – Sep 2 | 60–90 |
| Mache | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | Jun 17 – Jul 22 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Mar 25 | May 20 | May 27 | Aug 5 – Sep 23 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | May 13 – Jun 10 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | Apr 29 | Jun 24 – Aug 19 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | Jun 10 – Jul 8 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | Jun 10 – Aug 12 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | Jul 1 – Aug 5 | 55–75 |
| Onion | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | Aug 5 – Sep 23 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | Jun 17 – Jul 15 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Apr 29 | — | Aug 12 – Sep 23 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 25 | May 20 | May 27 | Jul 15 – Aug 12 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | Jul 1 – Aug 26 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 18 | May 20 | May 27 | Jul 29 – Oct 7 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 4 | May 20 | May 27 | Jul 22 – Sep 16 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 4 | May 20 | May 27 | Aug 5 – Oct 14 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 25 | May 20 | May 27 | Aug 26 – Oct 14 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | Jun 17 – Jul 22 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | Jul 8 – Aug 12 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Apr 29 | — | May 27 – Jun 17 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Jun 3 | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | Jul 22 – Sep 2 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Apr 29 | — | Jul 22 – Aug 26 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Apr 29 | — | Aug 12 – Sep 23 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | Jul 15 – Sep 9 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | Jul 1 – Jul 29 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 4 | May 20 | May 27 | Jul 29 – Sep 2 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | Aug 5 – Sep 23 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 11 | May 13 | May 27 | Jul 22 – Sep 16 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 4 | May 20 | May 27 | Jul 22 – Sep 16 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | Jul 1 – Aug 26 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | May 20 | — | Aug 12 – Oct 7 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 25 | May 20 | May 27 | Aug 26 – Sep 23 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | Jun 10 – Aug 12 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 25 | May 20 | May 27 | Jul 15 – Sep 16 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 25 | May 20 | May 27 | Aug 19 – Oct 14 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 20 | Sep 9 – Oct 14 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Mar 4 | May 20 | May 27 | Aug 5 – Sep 23 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | May 20 | — | Jul 22 – Sep 2 | 60–90 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | Jun 10 – Jul 15 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 4 | May 20 | May 27 | Jul 29 – Oct 7 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 4 | May 20 | May 27 | Jul 29 – Oct 7 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Apr 29 | — | Jun 10 – Jul 15 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | May 6 | Jun 17 – Jul 22 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 25 | May 20 | May 27 | Aug 5 – Sep 23 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | May 20 | — | Jul 15 – Sep 9 | 50–65 |
| Zucchini | Mar 25 | May 20 | May 27 | Jul 15 – Sep 9 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Hamlin County
22 fruits that grow well in Zone 4a with planting dates for Hamlin County.
Show all 22 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Jun 3 | Sep 2 – Oct 28 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Jun 3 | — | 730–1095 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Jun 3 | — | 730–1095 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Jun 3 | Aug 12 – Sep 16 | 70–90 |
| Cranberries | — | — | Jun 3 | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | Jun 3 | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Jun 3 | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Jun 3 | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Jun 3 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Jun 3 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Jun 3 | Aug 12 – Oct 7 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Jun 3 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | Jun 3 | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Jun 3 | Aug 26 – Oct 7 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Jun 3 | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | Jun 3 | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | Jun 3 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Jun 3 | — | 730–1825 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Jun 3 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Jun 3 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Jun 3 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Jun 3 | Sep 2 – Oct 28 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Hamlin County
32 herbs that grow well in Zone 4a with planting dates for Hamlin County.
Show all 32 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | Apr 29 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | Apr 29 | Jul 29 – Sep 23 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 11 | May 13 | May 27 | Jul 22 – Sep 23 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 13 | Aug 12 – Oct 7 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | Apr 29 | Jun 24 – Aug 12 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | Apr 29 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 13 | Jul 15 – Sep 16 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | Apr 29 | Jul 1 – Sep 9 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | Apr 29 | Jun 10 – Aug 12 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 13 | Jul 15 – Sep 23 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | Apr 29 | Jun 10 – Aug 12 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 13 | Jul 15 – Sep 23 | 60–90 |
| Dill | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | Apr 29 | Jun 10 – Aug 12 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | May 13 | Sep 16 – Oct 7 | 120–180 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | Apr 29 | Jul 1 – Sep 9 | 60–90 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | May 13 | Jul 15 – Sep 23 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | May 13 | Jul 29 – Sep 23 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | May 13 | Jul 22 – Sep 23 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | May 13 | Jul 15 – Sep 2 | 60–70 |
| Lovage | — | — | May 13 | Jul 22 – Sep 23 | 70–90 |
| Mint | — | — | May 13 | Jul 15 – Sep 23 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | May 13 | Jul 15 – Sep 23 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | Apr 29 | Jul 1 – Sep 2 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | May 13 | Jul 22 – Sep 23 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | May 13 | Jul 29 – Sep 23 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | May 13 | Jul 8 – Sep 2 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 25 | Apr 29 | Apr 29 | Jun 10 – Aug 12 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | May 13 | Jul 15 – Sep 23 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 11 | May 13 | May 27 | Jul 22 – Sep 23 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | May 13 | Jul 22 – Sep 23 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 13 | Sep 16 – Oct 7 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | May 13 | Aug 12 – Oct 7 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Hamlin County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Hamlin County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Hamlin County, SD?
Hamlin 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 Hamlin County, SD?
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Hamlin County falls around May 6. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between April 21 and May 15 — a 24-day window of variability. Use May 15 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Hamlin County, SD?
The median first fall frost in Hamlin County arrives around October 3. In cold years it can arrive as early as September 19; in mild years as late as October 14. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Hamlin County?
Hamlin County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 150 days. This is enough time for most warm-season crops including tomatoes, peppers, and squash with proper timing.
What is the soil like in Hamlin County for gardening?
Hamlin County has predominantly Loam soil with a pH range of 6.7–7.7 and Excessively Drained drainage. Most vegetables and herbs grow well with standard composting and seasonal soil amendment.
What is grown commercially in Hamlin County?
Hamlin County has commercial agriculture that includes Corn, Wheat, Soybeans. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Hamlin County a good location for home gardening?
Hamlin County scores 70/100 (Good) 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.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Hamlin County gardeners in Zone 4a organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
Get Your Free Garden Planner →Free download. Plan your entire garden season in minutes.
