Box Elder County, UT — Planting Guide
Box Elder County is in USDA Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is May 22 and the first fall frost is October 3, giving you a growing season of approximately 134 days.
At an elevation of 4,039 ft, Box Elder County receives approximately 24.5 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 87°F with winter lows around 26°F. The predominant soil type is Loam.
Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 41 days year to year — ranging from April 29 in warm years to June 10 in cold years. The growing season is trending shorter by about 1.46 days per decade. Box Elder County scores 42/100 (Moderate) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
6a (-10°F to -5°F min)
❄️ Last Frost
May 22
🍂 First Frost
October 3
📅 Growing Season
134 days
⛰️ Elevation
4,039 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
24.5 in
Monthly Watering Calendar
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 1.5 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.4 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Mar | 1.9 in | 7 days | 2.4 in | High |
| Apr | 2.7 in | 7 days | 1.6 in | High |
| May | 2.4 in | 8 days | 1.9 in | High |
| Jun | 1.7 in | 4 days | 2.6 in | High |
| Jul | 2.4 in | 5 days | 1.9 in | High |
| Aug | 2.8 in | 7 days | 1.5 in | Moderate |
| Sep | 1.8 in | 6 days | 2.5 in | High |
| Oct | 2.4 in | 5 days | 1.9 in | High |
| Nov | 1.7 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Dec | 1.6 in | 6 days | — | None |
Annual total: 24.3 in. Gardens typically need ~1 inch of water per week during the growing season. Months marked "None" for extra water are outside the active growing season for your zone — most gardens are dormant and don't need irrigation during those months.
Box Elder County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.3-7.9
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data from 2 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) | Jun 10 | Oct 24 | 136 days |
| Cautious | May 29 | Oct 9 | 133 days |
| Average year | May 22 | Oct 3 | 134 days |
| Optimistic | May 12 | Sep 24 | 135 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 29 | Sep 17 | 141 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±41 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 shorter here (about 1.5 days per decade). Use the "Conservative" dates and choose fast-maturing varieties.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Box Elder County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Box Elder 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 Box Elder County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Box Elder County Utah State University Extension Extension Office
Phone: 435-797-2200
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 Box Elder County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Box Elder County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Box Elder 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 Box Elder County UT" or "garden center Box Elder 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 Box Elder County UT" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Box Elder County Gardeners" or "Utah 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 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9 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 | 9.3 hr | 4.9 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.4 hr | 6 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 7 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.1 hr | 7.8 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.3 hr | 8.6 hr | Long day |
| June | 15 hr | 10.6 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.7 hr | 10.5 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.7 hr | 9.2 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.3 hr | 8.2 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.9 hr | 7.1 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.6 hr | 5.5 hr | Short day |
| December | 9 hr | 4.8 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 | 19°F | 28°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 21°F | 28°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 27°F | 31°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 41°F | 40°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| May | 50°F | 49°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 63°F | 57°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jul | 72°F | 63°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 73°F | 68°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 64°F | 65°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Oct | 54°F | 54°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 39°F | 44°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Dec | 29°F | 34°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 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 6 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | High | Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Japanese beetles | High | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash vine borers | Moderate | Jun, Jul |
| Tomato hornworms | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Cucumber beetles | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | Low | 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 County
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with county-specific planting dates.
Fall Cover Crops (7 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austrian winter peas | Aug 11 | May 8 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Jul 30 | May 8 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Aug 16 | May 8 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 19 | May 8 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 5 | May 8 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jun 28 | May 8 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 6 | May 1 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Spring Cover Crops (3 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Jun 2 | Jul 25 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Jun 1 | Aug 8 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Apr 27 | Aug 8 | ✓ 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 4 | Sep 5 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Wind & Microclimate
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 14 mph Summer: 11 mph
Fall: 12 mph Winter: 16 mph
Prevailing wind: W. Windy area — plant a windbreak hedge on the W side of your garden.
Windbreak Benefit
6.7/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
High
Hilly terrain with 1,529 ft of elevation range — cold air pools in low spots. Avoid planting frost-sensitive crops in valleys.
Rainwater Harvesting Potential
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Annual Collection
12,111 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
Limited
Your state has quantity limits on rainwater collection — check local regulations before installing large systems.
Best Collection Months
Apr, May, Jul, Aug
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Jan, Feb, 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 24.3 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 12,111 gallons annually
- Check UT state regulations — rainwater harvesting has quantity limits
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Jan, Feb, Dec)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
Soil & Growing Conditions in Box Elder County
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH 6.3–7.9 · Well Drained drainage
Good candidate for raised beds to maximise drainage and extend the season.
Watering Needs
Drought stress: 9.5/10
Very high drought stress. Irrigation is critical for garden success. Focus on water-efficient techniques and drought-adapted crops.
Season Tips
134-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 Box Elder County
108 vegetables that grow well in Zone 6a with planting dates for Box Elder County.
Show all 108 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Apr 17 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Aug 28 – Oct 2 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 27 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Sep 4 – Oct 23 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Apr 17 | May 8 | May 22 | Jun 26 – Aug 28 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Jun 5 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | May 8 | — | Jul 3 – Jul 31 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Apr 17 | May 8 | May 22 | Sep 11 – Nov 6 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Mar 27 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Aug 7 – Sep 18 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | May 29 | — | Aug 28 – Oct 16 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Apr 17 | May 8 | May 22 | Jul 3 – Aug 7 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Apr 17 | May 8 | May 22 | Jul 24 – Sep 4 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Apr 17 | May 8 | May 22 | Jul 3 – Aug 7 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Apr 17 | May 8 | May 22 | Aug 21 – Oct 16 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Apr 17 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Sep 4 – Oct 9 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Apr 17 | May 8 | May 22 | Jul 24 – Sep 18 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Mar 27 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Aug 28 – Oct 23 | 80–120 |
| Carrots | — | May 8 | — | Jul 10 – Aug 14 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Apr 17 | May 8 | May 22 | Jul 17 – Sep 18 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Apr 17 | May 8 | May 22 | Sep 4 – Oct 9 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Apr 17 | May 8 | May 22 | Aug 14 – Oct 9 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Apr 17 | May 8 | May 22 | Jul 24 – Sep 4 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Apr 17 | May 8 | May 22 | Jul 17 – Sep 4 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Apr 17 | May 8 | May 22 | Aug 14 – Sep 25 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Apr 17 | May 8 | May 22 | Jul 24 – Sep 4 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Apr 17 | May 8 | May 22 | Jul 17 – Aug 14 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 27 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Aug 28 – Oct 2 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Apr 17 | May 8 | May 22 | Jul 17 – Sep 18 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | May 29 | — | Jul 31 – Sep 25 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | May 29 | — | Jul 31 – Sep 11 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Apr 17 | May 8 | May 22 | Jun 5 – Jun 26 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Apr 17 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Jul 24 – Aug 21 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | May 8 | — | Oct 9 – Nov 20 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Apr 17 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Jul 31 – Sep 25 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | May 8 | — | Jul 3 – Jul 31 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Apr 17 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Aug 28 – Oct 2 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | May 29 | — | Aug 14 – Sep 25 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Mar 13 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Aug 14 – Oct 16 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Apr 17 | May 8 | May 22 | Jul 10 – Aug 14 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Apr 17 | May 8 | May 22 | Jul 17 – Aug 14 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Apr 17 | May 8 | May 22 | Aug 7 – Sep 18 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 27 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Aug 7 – Sep 18 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | May 29 | — | Jul 24 – Sep 18 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Jun 5 | Oct 9 – Dec 18 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Mar 13 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Aug 14 – Nov 20 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Apr 17 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Sep 18 – Oct 23 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Apr 17 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Sep 4 – Oct 2 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Apr 17 | May 8 | May 22 | Jul 10 – Aug 7 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Apr 17 | May 8 | May 22 | Jul 17 – Sep 11 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | May 29 | — | Aug 28 – Oct 2 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Apr 17 | May 8 | May 22 | Jul 10 – Aug 14 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Apr 17 | May 8 | May 22 | Jun 26 – Jul 31 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Apr 17 | May 8 | May 22 | Aug 21 – Nov 6 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Apr 17 | May 8 | May 22 | Aug 14 – Sep 25 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Apr 17 | May 8 | May 22 | Jun 26 – Sep 4 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | May 29 | — | Jul 31 – Sep 11 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Mar 27 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Sep 18 – Nov 20 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Mar 27 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Sep 4 – Nov 20 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Apr 17 | May 8 | May 22 | Jul 3 – Aug 7 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Apr 17 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Aug 14 – Oct 2 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Apr 17 | May 8 | May 22 | May 29 – Jun 26 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Apr 17 | May 8 | May 15 | Jul 10 – Sep 4 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Apr 17 | May 8 | May 22 | Jun 26 – Jul 24 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Apr 17 | May 8 | May 22 | Jun 26 – Aug 28 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Apr 17 | May 8 | May 22 | Jul 17 – Aug 21 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Mar 27 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Jul 31 – Aug 28 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Mar 27 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Jul 31 – Sep 25 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Apr 17 | May 8 | May 22 | Aug 21 – Oct 9 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Apr 17 | May 8 | May 22 | Jul 3 – Jul 31 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | May 8 | — | Aug 21 – Oct 2 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Apr 17 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Jul 24 – Aug 21 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Apr 17 | May 8 | May 22 | Jul 17 – Sep 11 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Mar 13 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Aug 7 – Oct 16 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 27 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Jul 31 – Sep 25 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 27 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Aug 14 – Oct 23 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Apr 17 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Sep 4 – Oct 23 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Apr 17 | May 8 | May 22 | Jul 3 – Aug 7 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Apr 17 | May 8 | May 22 | Jul 24 – Aug 28 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | May 8 | — | Jun 5 – Jun 26 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Jun 12 | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Apr 17 | May 8 | May 22 | Aug 7 – Sep 18 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | May 8 | — | Jul 31 – Sep 4 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | May 8 | — | Aug 21 – Oct 2 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Apr 17 | May 8 | May 22 | Jul 31 – Sep 25 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Apr 17 | May 8 | May 22 | Jul 17 – Aug 14 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 27 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Aug 7 – Sep 11 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Apr 17 | May 8 | May 22 | Aug 21 – Oct 9 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Apr 3 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Jul 31 – Sep 25 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 27 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Jul 31 – Sep 25 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Apr 17 | May 8 | May 22 | Jul 17 – Sep 11 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | May 29 | — | Aug 21 – Oct 16 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Apr 17 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Sep 4 – Oct 2 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Apr 17 | May 8 | May 22 | Jun 26 – Aug 28 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Apr 17 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Jul 24 – Sep 25 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Apr 17 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Aug 28 – Oct 23 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Jun 5 | Sep 25 – Nov 20 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Mar 27 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Aug 14 – Oct 2 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | May 29 | — | Jul 31 – Sep 11 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Mar 27 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Sep 4 – Oct 23 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Apr 17 | May 8 | May 22 | Jun 26 – Jul 31 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 27 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Aug 7 – Oct 16 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 27 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Aug 7 – Oct 16 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | May 8 | — | Jun 19 – Jul 24 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Apr 17 | May 8 | May 22 | Jul 3 – Aug 7 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Apr 17 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Aug 14 – Oct 2 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | May 29 | — | Jul 24 – Sep 18 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Mar 27 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Sep 4 – Oct 23 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Mar 27 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Jul 31 – Sep 11 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Apr 17 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Jul 24 – Sep 18 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Box Elder County
27 fruits that grow well in Zone 6a with planting dates for Box Elder County.
Show all 27 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Jun 12 | Sep 11 – Dec 25 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Jun 12 | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Jun 12 | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Jun 12 | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Jun 12 | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Jun 12 | Aug 21 – Sep 25 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Jun 12 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | Jun 12 | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | Jun 12 | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Jun 12 | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Jun 12 | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Jun 12 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Jun 12 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Jun 12 | Aug 21 – Oct 16 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Jun 12 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | Jun 12 | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Jun 12 | Sep 4 – Oct 16 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Jun 12 | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | Jun 12 | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | Jun 12 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Jun 12 | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Jun 12 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Jun 12 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Quince | — | — | Jun 12 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Jun 12 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Jun 12 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Jun 12 | Sep 11 – Dec 25 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Box Elder County
38 herbs that grow well in Zone 6a with planting dates for Box Elder County.
Show all 38 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Apr 17 | May 8 | May 15 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Apr 17 | May 8 | May 15 | Aug 14 – Oct 30 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Apr 3 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Jul 31 – Oct 2 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 29 | Aug 28 – Nov 13 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Apr 17 | May 8 | May 15 | Jul 10 – Aug 28 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Apr 17 | May 8 | May 15 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 29 | Jul 31 – Oct 2 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Apr 17 | May 8 | May 15 | Jul 17 – Sep 25 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Apr 17 | May 8 | May 15 | Jun 26 – Aug 28 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 29 | Jul 31 – Oct 9 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Apr 17 | May 8 | May 15 | Jun 26 – Aug 28 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 29 | Jul 31 – Oct 9 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Apr 17 | May 8 | May 15 | Aug 28 – Oct 30 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Apr 17 | May 8 | May 15 | Jun 26 – Aug 28 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | May 29 | Oct 2 – Dec 11 | 120–180 |
| Epazote | Apr 3 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Jul 24 – Sep 18 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Apr 17 | May 8 | May 15 | Jul 17 – Sep 25 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | May 29 | Aug 28 – Nov 13 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | May 29 | Jul 31 – Oct 9 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | May 29 | Aug 14 – Oct 9 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | May 29 | Aug 7 – Oct 9 | 70–90 |
| Lavender | — | — | May 29 | Aug 28 – Dec 11 | 90–200 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | May 29 | Jul 31 – Sep 18 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | May 29 | Aug 7 – Oct 9 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | May 29 | Aug 7 – Oct 9 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | May 29 | Jul 31 – Oct 9 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | May 29 | Jul 31 – Oct 9 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | May 29 | Jul 31 – Oct 9 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Apr 17 | May 8 | May 15 | Jul 17 – Sep 18 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | May 29 | Aug 7 – Oct 9 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | May 29 | Aug 14 – Oct 9 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | May 29 | Jul 24 – Sep 18 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Apr 17 | May 8 | May 15 | Jun 26 – Aug 28 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | May 29 | Jul 31 – Oct 9 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Apr 3 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Jul 31 – Oct 2 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | May 29 | Aug 7 – Oct 9 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 29 | Oct 2 – Dec 11 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | May 29 | Aug 28 – Nov 13 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Box Elder County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Box Elder County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Box Elder County, UT?
Box Elder County is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6a. 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 Box Elder County, UT?
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Box Elder County falls around May 22. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between April 29 and June 10 — a 41-day window of variability. Use June 10 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Box Elder County, UT?
The median first fall frost in Box Elder County arrives around October 3. In cold years it can arrive as early as September 17; in mild years as late as October 24. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Box Elder County?
Box Elder County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 134 days. Focus on short-season varieties and start warm-season crops indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost. Climate records show the growing season is trending shorter by about 1.46 days per decade.
What is the soil like in Box Elder County for gardening?
Box Elder County has predominantly Loam soil with a pH range of 6.3–7.9 and Well Drained drainage. Most vegetables and herbs grow well with standard composting and seasonal soil amendment.
What is grown commercially in Box Elder County?
Box Elder County has commercial agriculture that includes Hay, Cattle, Wheat. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Box Elder County a good location for home gardening?
Box Elder County scores 42/100 (Moderate) on our Microclimate Index, which combines frost reliability, drought pressure, soil challenge, elevation risk, and long-term climate trend. Gardening here benefits from close attention to frost timing and season extension due to the challenging microclimate factors.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Box Elder County gardeners in Zone 6a 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.
