Box Elder, SD — Planting Guide for July
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
What to do in July
If you only do a handful of things in the garden this July, make it these. They're sequenced around your zone's frost timing.
-
Fire up the seed-starting tray: basil, peppers, and pole beans
You're about 12 weeks out from your last frost — the perfect window to get these germinating indoors.
-
Bring in the basil, carrots, and cucumber
Taste as you pick. The first ripe produce is the best feedback loop you'll get all season.
-
Sow carrots, kale, and lettuce for an autumn harvest
Your first frost is about 12 weeks away — plenty of time for these to mature.
To set up a strong August, finish these tasks
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
- Fall sowing: alliums, crocus, and daffodils
Box Elder gardens in a dry climate (only 14" 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.
Box Elder averages 30.3 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
5a (-20°F to -15°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
May 14
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 1
📅 Growing Season
140 days
🌧️ Climate
Semi Arid 14.3" annual
💨 Wind
Breezy 10.3 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
30.3 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Box Elder
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
Quick context: Mulch reduces watering needs 30-50% by cutting evaporation. Box Elder's 14" annual rainfall might be enough for vegetables in some months and not in others — a 2-3" mulch layer evens the swing.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 2.2 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Feb | 2 in | 5 days | — | None |
| Mar | 3 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Apr | 3.7 in | 7 days | 0.6 in | Moderate |
| May | 3.6 in | 8 days | 0.7 in | Moderate |
| Jun | 2 in | 5 days | 2.3 in | High |
| Jul | 3.1 in | 6 days | 1.2 in | Moderate |
| Aug | 3.5 in | 7 days | 0.8 in | Moderate |
| Sep | 3 in | 6 days | 1.3 in | Moderate |
| Oct | 3.2 in | 6 days | 1.1 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 2.2 in | 5 days | — | None |
| Dec | 2.2 in | 6 days | — | None |
Annual total: 33.7 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.
Box Elder Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.3-7.7
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 26 | Oct 11 | 138 days |
| Cautious | May 19 | Oct 4 | 138 days |
| Average year | May 14 | Oct 1 | 140 days |
| Optimistic | May 10 | Sep 21 | 134 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 30 | Sep 12 | 135 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±26 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Pennington County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Pennington 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 Pennington County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Pennington 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 Pennington County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Pennington County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Pennington 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 Pennington County SD" or "garden center Pennington 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 Pennington County SD" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Pennington 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 in Box Elder
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
The practical takeaway: Onions are a great example of why day length matters. They "bulb up" only when daylight hits a specific number of hours — plant the wrong variety (short-day in the north, long-day in the south) and you'll get tiny bulbs no matter how well you grow them. Box Elder's latitude determines which onion varieties succeed.
Longest Day
15.3 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
8.7 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
10.9 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 | 9.1 hr | 4.9 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.2 hr | 6.1 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.6 hr | 7 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.2 hr | 8.1 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.6 hr | 9.1 hr | Long day |
| June | 15.3 hr | 10.7 hr | Long day |
| July | 15 hr | 10.9 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.8 hr | 9.4 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.3 hr | 8.2 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.7 hr | 7.2 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.4 hr | 5.2 hr | Short day |
| December | 8.7 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 in Box Elder
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Quick context: Soil temperature predicts plant emergence better than calendar dates. Box Elder's spring soil warm-up curve tells you which weeks are safe for direct-sow beans, cucumbers, squash, and corn.
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 | 25°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 17°F | 23°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 27°F | 30°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 42°F | 39°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| May | 54°F | 52°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 63°F | 60°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jul | 73°F | 67°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 74°F | 70°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 67°F | 65°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 54°F | 56°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 36°F | 43°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Dec | 24°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 Box Elder
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Why this matters: Pest score isn't pass/fail. It's a planning input. Higher scores mean: more compost (resilient plants), wider spacing (air circulation), resistant varieties (built-in defense), and inspection (catch issues at egg stage).
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 Box Elder
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
The practical takeaway: The "chop and drop" approach to cover crops: cut them down right before flowering, let them lay on the surface as mulch, plant your vegetables through the mulch. Less work, healthier soil.
Spring Cover Crops (2 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | May 20 | Jul 30 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| White clover | Apr 15 | Jul 23 | ✓ 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 7 | Sep 10 | — | 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 15 | Apr 23 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 24 | Apr 23 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Aug 26 | Apr 30 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 7 | Apr 23 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jun 22 | Apr 30 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Box Elder
For new gardeners: New gardeners under-plan for wind. Box Elder averages 10.3 mph — fine for most days. But every region has its windy days, and the first time a row of unstaked peppers leans over after a storm is a lesson you only need once.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 15 mph Summer: 13 mph
Fall: 13 mph Winter: 15 mph
Prevailing wind: S. Windy area — plant a windbreak hedge on the S side of your garden.
Windbreak Benefit
7.1/10
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 (321 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Box Elder
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Why this matters: Rainwater is unchlorinated, unfluoridated, and at ambient temperature — plants actually prefer it. Box Elder's 14" annual rainfall means even a small 50-gallon barrel catches enough for a few weeks of garden watering between storms.
Annual Collection
16,796 gal
Per 1,000 sq ft of roof area (at 80% collection efficiency)
Recommended Setup
6 rain barrels (55 gal each)
For a typical 500 sq ft garden. Serious collectors: consider a 1,250 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, Jun, 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 33.7 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 16,796 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Feb, Jun, Dec)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Box Elder
105 vegetables matched to Zone 5a with planting dates calibrated for Box Elder.
Show all 105 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Apr 9 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Aug 20 – Sep 24 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 19 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Aug 27 – Oct 15 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 23 | Jun 18 – Aug 20 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 28 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 23 | Jun 25 – Jul 23 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 23 | Sep 3 – Oct 29 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Mar 19 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Jul 30 – Sep 10 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | May 21 | — | — | Aug 20 – Oct 8 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 23 | Jun 25 – Jul 30 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 23 | Jul 16 – Aug 27 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 23 | Jun 25 – Jul 30 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 23 | Aug 13 – Oct 8 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Apr 9 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Aug 27 – Oct 1 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 23 | Jul 16 – Sep 10 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Mar 19 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Aug 20 – Oct 15 | 80–120 |
| Carrots | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 23 | Jul 2 – Aug 6 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 23 | Jul 9 – Sep 10 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 23 | Aug 27 – Oct 1 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 23 | Aug 6 – Oct 1 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 23 | Jul 16 – Aug 27 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 23 | Jul 9 – Aug 27 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 23 | Aug 6 – Sep 17 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 23 | Jul 16 – Aug 27 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 23 | Jul 9 – Aug 6 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 19 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Aug 20 – Sep 24 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 23 | Jul 9 – Sep 10 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | May 21 | — | — | Jul 23 – Sep 17 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | May 21 | — | — | Jul 23 – Sep 3 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 23 | May 28 – Jun 18 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Apr 9 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Jul 16 – Aug 13 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 23 | Oct 1 – Oct 15 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Apr 9 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Jul 23 – Sep 17 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 23 | Jun 25 – Jul 23 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Apr 9 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Aug 20 – Sep 24 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | May 21 | — | — | Aug 6 – Sep 17 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Mar 5 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Aug 6 – Oct 8 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 23 | Jul 2 – Aug 6 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 23 | Jul 9 – Aug 6 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 23 | Jul 30 – Sep 10 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 19 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Jul 30 – Sep 10 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Aug 20 | Nov 19 – Feb 4 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | May 21 | — | — | Jul 16 – Sep 10 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 28 | — | Oct 1 – Nov 12 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Mar 5 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Aug 6 – Nov 12 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Apr 9 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Sep 10 – Oct 15 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Apr 9 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Aug 27 – Sep 24 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 23 | Jul 2 – Jul 30 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 23 | Jul 9 – Sep 3 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | May 21 | — | — | Aug 20 – Sep 24 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 23 | Jul 2 – Aug 6 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 23 | Jun 18 – Jul 23 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 23 | Aug 13 – Oct 29 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 23 | Aug 6 – Sep 17 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 23 | Jun 18 – Aug 27 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | May 21 | — | — | Jul 23 – Sep 3 | 60–90 |
| Mache | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 23 | Jun 25 – Jul 30 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Apr 9 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Aug 6 – Sep 24 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 23 | May 21 – Jun 18 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 7 | Jul 23 | Jul 2 – Aug 27 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 23 | Jun 18 – Jul 16 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 23 | Jun 18 – Aug 20 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 23 | Jul 9 – Aug 13 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Mar 19 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Jul 23 – Aug 20 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Mar 19 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Jul 23 – Sep 17 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 23 | Aug 13 – Oct 1 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 23 | Jun 25 – Jul 23 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 23 | Aug 13 – Sep 24 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Apr 9 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Jul 16 – Aug 13 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 23 | Jul 9 – Sep 3 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Mar 5 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Jul 30 – Oct 8 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 19 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Jul 23 – Sep 17 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 19 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Aug 6 – Oct 15 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Apr 9 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Aug 27 – Oct 15 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 23 | Jun 25 – Jul 30 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 23 | Jul 16 – Aug 20 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 23 | May 28 – Jun 18 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Jun 4 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 23 | Jul 30 – Sep 10 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 23 | Jul 23 – Aug 27 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 23 | Aug 13 – Sep 24 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 23 | Jul 23 – Sep 17 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 23 | Jul 9 – Aug 6 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 19 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Jul 30 – Sep 3 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 23 | Aug 13 – Oct 1 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 26 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Jul 23 – Sep 17 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 19 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Jul 23 – Sep 17 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 23 | Jul 9 – Sep 3 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | May 21 | — | — | Aug 13 – Oct 8 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Apr 9 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Aug 27 – Sep 24 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 23 | Jun 18 – Aug 20 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Apr 9 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 17 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Apr 9 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Aug 20 – Oct 15 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 28 | — | Sep 17 – Nov 12 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | May 21 | — | — | Jul 23 – Sep 3 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Mar 19 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Aug 27 – Oct 15 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 23 | Jun 18 – Jul 23 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 19 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Jul 30 – Oct 8 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 19 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Jul 30 – Oct 8 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 23 | Jun 11 – Jul 16 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 14 | Jul 23 | Jun 25 – Jul 30 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Apr 9 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Aug 6 – Sep 24 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | May 21 | — | — | Jul 16 – Sep 10 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Mar 19 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Aug 27 – Oct 15 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Mar 19 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Jul 23 – Sep 3 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Apr 9 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 10 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Box Elder
27 fruits matched to Zone 5a with planting dates calibrated for Box Elder.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Jun 4 | — | Sep 3 – Nov 19 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Jun 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Jun 4 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Jun 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Jun 4 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Jun 4 | — | Aug 13 – Sep 17 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Jun 4 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | Jun 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | Jun 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Jun 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Jun 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Jun 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Jun 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Jun 4 | — | Aug 13 – Oct 8 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Jun 4 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | Jun 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Jun 4 | — | Aug 27 – Oct 8 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Jun 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | Jun 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | Jun 4 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Jun 4 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Jun 4 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Jun 4 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Quince | — | — | Jun 4 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Jun 4 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Jun 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Jun 4 | — | Sep 3 – Nov 19 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Box Elder
34 herbs matched to Zone 5a with planting dates calibrated for Box Elder.
Show all 34 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 7 | Jul 23 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 7 | Jul 23 | Aug 6 – Oct 22 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 26 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Jul 23 – Sep 24 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 21 | — | Aug 20 – Nov 5 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 7 | Jul 23 | Jul 2 – Aug 20 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 7 | Jul 23 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 21 | — | Jul 23 – Sep 24 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 7 | Jul 23 | Jul 9 – Sep 17 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 7 | Jul 23 | Jun 18 – Aug 20 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 21 | — | Jul 23 – Oct 1 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 7 | Jul 23 | Jun 18 – Aug 20 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 21 | — | Jul 23 – Oct 1 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 7 | Jul 23 | Aug 20 – Oct 22 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 7 | Jul 23 | Jun 18 – Aug 20 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Mar 26 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 10 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | May 7 | Jul 23 | Jul 9 – Sep 17 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | May 21 | — | Aug 20 – Nov 5 | 90–120 |
| 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 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | May 21 | — | Jul 30 – Oct 1 | 70–90 |
| 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 9 | Apr 30 | May 7 | Jul 23 | 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 9 | Apr 30 | May 7 | Jul 23 | Jun 18 – Aug 20 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | May 21 | — | Jul 23 – Oct 1 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 26 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Jul 23 – Sep 24 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | May 21 | — | Jul 30 – Oct 1 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 21 | — | Sep 24 – Nov 5 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Box Elder
51 flowers matched to Zone 5a with planting dates calibrated for Box Elder.
Show all 51 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Mar 26 | May 21 | May 21 | — | Jul 16 – Oct 8 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Aug 20 | Sep 24 – Oct 22 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | Apr 16 | — | May 14 | — | Jun 25 – Jul 23 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Mar 12 | — | May 28 | — | Aug 13 – Oct 15 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Apr 2 | Apr 23 | May 14 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 24 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Mar 5 | — | May 21 | — | Jul 30 – Oct 22 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Mar 12 | May 14 | May 28 | — | Aug 13 – Nov 12 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Mar 12 | — | May 28 | — | Jul 23 – Sep 3 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Apr 2 | Apr 23 | May 14 | — | Jul 2 – Sep 24 | 50–70 |
| Celosia | Apr 9 | May 28 | May 28 | — | Jul 30 – Oct 29 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Mar 12 | May 28 | May 28 | — | Jul 23 – Sep 3 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Mar 12 | May 21 | May 28 | — | Aug 6 – Nov 12 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Apr 16 | May 21 | May 21 | — | Jul 30 – Oct 22 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Aug 20 | Jul 2 – Jul 23 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Aug 20 | Jul 9 – Jul 30 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Apr 16 | May 21 | May 21 | — | Aug 13 – Nov 5 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Mar 12 | — | May 28 | — | Aug 20 – Nov 12 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Mar 12 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | — | Jun 18 – Sep 3 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Mar 12 | May 28 | May 28 | — | Aug 20 – Nov 12 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Mar 12 | May 28 | May 28 | — | Jul 23 – Sep 3 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Mar 19 | May 28 | May 28 | — | Aug 6 – Nov 26 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Mar 5 | — | May 21 | — | Jul 30 – Oct 22 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | May 21 | May 21 | — | Aug 13 – Nov 5 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Mar 5 | — | May 28 | — | Aug 20 – Nov 12 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Aug 20 | Jul 30 – Aug 27 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Mar 5 | — | May 28 | — | Aug 13 – Oct 29 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Mar 19 | — | May 21 | — | Jul 30 – Oct 22 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | May 28 | — | Jul 23 – Aug 27 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Apr 16 | — | — | Jun 25 – Aug 20 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Mar 5 | — | Jun 4 | — | Aug 13 – Sep 24 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | May 28 | — | Aug 6 – Oct 29 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Mar 5 | — | May 7 | — | Jul 2 – Sep 10 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Mar 12 | May 28 | May 28 | — | Jul 23 – Sep 3 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Apr 2 | May 21 | May 21 | — | Jul 16 – Oct 8 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Apr 16 | May 21 | May 21 | — | Jul 16 – Oct 22 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Mar 5 | — | May 14 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 3 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | May 28 | — | Aug 6 – Sep 17 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Mar 19 | — | May 21 | — | Jul 30 – Oct 22 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Mar 12 | May 28 | May 28 | — | Aug 13 – Oct 29 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Apr 9 | May 28 | May 28 | — | Jul 16 – Oct 15 | 50–70 |
| Roses | Mar 5 | — | May 28 | — | Aug 13 – Nov 12 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Mar 12 | — | May 21 | — | Jul 30 – Oct 22 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Mar 12 | — | May 28 | — | Sep 24 – Nov 26 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Mar 5 | Apr 30 | May 14 | — | Jul 23 – Sep 24 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Apr 23 | May 21 | May 21 | — | Aug 13 – Oct 22 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Mar 26 | Apr 30 | May 14 | — | Jun 25 – Sep 3 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | Apr 2 | Apr 9 | May 14 | — | Jul 30 – Oct 1 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Aug 20 | Jul 23 – Aug 13 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Feb 26 | — | May 28 | — | Aug 6 – Oct 22 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Mar 12 | May 14 | May 28 | — | Aug 6 – Nov 12 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Apr 16 | May 21 | May 21 | — | Jul 30 – Oct 22 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Box Elder
ZIP Codes in Box Elder
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 Pennington County.
Your Pennington County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Pennington County (Zone 5a). 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