Stevens County, WA — Planting Guide
Stevens County is in USDA Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is May 10 and the first fall frost is September 24, giving you a growing season of approximately 137 days.
At an elevation of 1,751 ft, Stevens County receives approximately 24.4 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 83°F with winter lows around 15°F. The predominant soil type is Silt Loam.
Based on 30 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 36 days year to year — ranging from April 23 in warm years to May 29 in cold years. Stevens County scores 72/100 (Good) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
5b (-15°F to -10°F min)
❄️ Last Frost
May 10
🍂 First Frost
September 24
📅 Growing Season
137 days
⛰️ Elevation
1,751 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
24.4 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 | 3.2 in | 16 days | — | None |
| Feb | 2.5 in | 12 days | — | None |
| Mar | 2.7 in | 16 days | — | None |
| Apr | 2 in | 11 days | 2.3 in | High |
| May | 1.3 in | 9 days | 3 in | High |
| Jun | 0.9 in | 6 days | 3.4 in | Critical |
| Jul | 0.3 in | 2 days | 4 in | Critical |
| Aug | 0.4 in | 3 days | 3.9 in | Critical |
| Sep | 0.9 in | 5 days | 3.4 in | Critical |
| Oct | 2.3 in | 11 days | 2 in | High |
| Nov | 4.2 in | 16 days | — | None |
| Dec | 3.6 in | 16 days | — | None |
Annual total: 24.3 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.
Stevens County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.3-6.3
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 30 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 29 | Oct 12 | 136 days |
| Cautious | May 18 | Oct 3 | 138 days |
| Average year | May 10 | Sep 24 | 137 days |
| Optimistic | May 2 | Sep 15 | 136 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 23 | Sep 7 | 137 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±36 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Slightly — seasons are trending a bit shorter (0.5 days/decade). Stay conservative with planting dates.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Stevens County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Stevens 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 Stevens County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Stevens County Washington State University Extension Extension Office
Phone: 509-335-2811
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 Stevens County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Stevens County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Stevens 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 Stevens County WA" or "garden center Stevens 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 Stevens County WA" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Stevens County Gardeners" or "Washington 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
15.9 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
8.1 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
11.3 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 | 8.5 hr | 2.1 hr | Short day |
| February | 9.9 hr | 2.9 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.6 hr | 4 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.4 hr | 5.3 hr | Neutral |
| May | 15 hr | 7.8 hr | Long day |
| June | 15.9 hr | 8.8 hr | Long day |
| July | 15.5 hr | 11.3 hr | Long day |
| August | 14.1 hr | 9.2 hr | Long day |
| September | 12.3 hr | 7 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.5 hr | 4 hr | Short day |
| November | 8.9 hr | 2.2 hr | Short day |
| December | 8.1 hr | 1.7 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 | 18°F | 27°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 20°F | 25°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 30°F | 31°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 43°F | 40°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| May | 54°F | 51°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 65°F | 59°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jul | 72°F | 66°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 74°F | 71°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 67°F | 66°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 56°F | 57°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 41°F | 45°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Dec | 26°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 Stevens 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 |
| Japanese beetles | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash bugs | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Tomato hornworms | Moderate | Jul, Aug |
| Cabbage loopers | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
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 Stevens County
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with county-specific planting dates.
Spring Cover Crops (3 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | May 15 | Jul 23 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | May 17 | Jul 16 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Apr 14 | 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 10 | Aug 27 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Fall Cover Crops (6 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austrian winter peas | Jul 21 | Apr 19 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Daikon radish | Aug 11 | Apr 26 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 15 | Apr 26 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Aug 17 | Apr 26 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jun 30 | Apr 19 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jun 19 | Apr 26 | — | 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: 9 mph Summer: 7 mph
Fall: 9 mph Winter: 10 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
3.5/10
Low need — wind is not a major factor in your garden planning.
Frost Pocket Risk
Moderate
Some terrain variation (657 ft range). Garden on slopes or higher ground if possible to avoid late-season frost pockets.
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 2,250 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
Jan, Mar, Nov, Dec
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
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
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Jun, Jul, Aug)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
Soil & Growing Conditions in Stevens County
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH 5.3–6.3 · Moderately Well Drained drainage
Good candidate for raised beds to maximise drainage and extend the season.
Watering Needs
Drought stress: 1.5/10
Stevens County has very low drought pressure. Natural rainfall usually meets garden needs — water only during extended dry spells.
Season Tips
137-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 Stevens County
106 vegetables that grow well in Zone 5b with planting dates for Stevens County.
Show all 106 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Apr 5 | May 17 | May 24 | Aug 16 – Sep 20 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 15 | May 17 | May 24 | Aug 23 – Oct 11 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jun 14 – Aug 16 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 24 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Apr 26 | — | Jun 21 – Jul 19 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 30 – Oct 25 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Mar 15 | May 17 | May 24 | Jul 26 – Sep 6 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | May 17 | — | Aug 16 – Oct 4 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jun 21 – Jul 26 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 12 – Aug 23 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jun 21 – Jul 26 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 9 – Oct 4 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Apr 5 | May 17 | May 24 | Aug 23 – Sep 27 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 12 – Sep 6 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Mar 15 | May 17 | May 24 | Aug 16 – Oct 11 | 80–120 |
| Carrots | — | Apr 26 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 2 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 5 – Sep 6 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 23 – Sep 27 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 2 – Sep 27 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 12 – Aug 23 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 5 – Aug 23 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 2 – Sep 13 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 12 – Aug 23 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 5 – Aug 2 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 15 | May 17 | May 24 | Aug 16 – Sep 20 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 5 – Sep 6 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | May 17 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | May 17 | — | Jul 19 – Aug 30 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | May 24 – Jun 14 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Apr 5 | May 17 | May 24 | Jul 12 – Aug 9 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Apr 26 | — | Sep 27 – Oct 11 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Apr 5 | May 17 | May 24 | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Apr 26 | — | Jun 21 – Jul 19 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Apr 5 | May 17 | May 24 | Aug 16 – Sep 20 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | May 17 | — | Aug 2 – Sep 13 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Mar 1 | May 17 | May 24 | Aug 2 – Oct 4 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jun 28 – Aug 2 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 5 – Aug 2 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 26 – Sep 6 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 15 | May 17 | May 24 | Jul 26 – Sep 6 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | May 17 | — | Jul 12 – Sep 6 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 24 | Sep 27 – Nov 8 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Mar 1 | May 17 | May 24 | Aug 2 – Nov 8 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Apr 5 | May 17 | May 24 | Sep 6 – Oct 11 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Apr 5 | May 17 | May 24 | Aug 23 – Sep 20 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jun 28 – Jul 26 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 5 – Aug 30 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | May 17 | — | Aug 16 – Sep 20 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jun 28 – Aug 2 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jun 14 – Jul 19 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 9 – Oct 25 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 2 – Sep 13 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jun 14 – Aug 23 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | May 17 | — | Jul 19 – Aug 30 | 60–90 |
| Mache | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jun 21 – Jul 26 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Apr 5 | May 17 | May 24 | Aug 2 – Sep 20 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | May 17 – Jun 14 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 3 | Jun 28 – Aug 23 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jun 14 – Jul 12 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jun 14 – Aug 16 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 5 – Aug 9 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Mar 15 | May 17 | May 24 | Jul 19 – Aug 16 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Mar 15 | May 17 | May 24 | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 9 – Sep 27 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jun 21 – Jul 19 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Apr 26 | — | Aug 9 – Sep 20 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Apr 5 | May 17 | May 24 | Jul 12 – Aug 9 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 5 – Aug 30 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Mar 1 | May 17 | May 24 | Jul 26 – Oct 4 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 15 | May 17 | May 24 | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 15 | May 17 | May 24 | Aug 2 – Oct 11 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Apr 5 | May 17 | May 24 | Aug 23 – Oct 11 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jun 21 – Jul 26 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 12 – Aug 16 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Apr 26 | — | May 24 – Jun 14 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 31 | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 26 – Sep 6 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Apr 26 | — | Jul 19 – Aug 23 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Apr 26 | — | Aug 9 – Sep 20 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 5 – Aug 2 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 15 | May 17 | May 24 | Jul 26 – Aug 30 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Aug 9 – Sep 27 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 22 | May 17 | May 24 | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 15 | May 17 | May 24 | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jul 5 – Aug 30 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | May 17 | — | Aug 9 – Oct 4 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Apr 5 | May 17 | May 24 | Aug 23 – Sep 20 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jun 14 – Aug 16 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Apr 5 | May 17 | May 24 | Jul 12 – Sep 13 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Apr 5 | May 17 | May 24 | Aug 16 – Oct 11 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 24 | Sep 13 – Nov 8 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Mar 15 | May 17 | May 24 | Aug 2 – Sep 20 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | May 17 | — | Jul 19 – Aug 30 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Mar 15 | May 17 | May 24 | Aug 23 – Oct 11 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jun 14 – Jul 19 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 15 | May 17 | May 24 | Jul 26 – Oct 4 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 15 | May 17 | May 24 | Jul 26 – Oct 4 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Apr 26 | — | Jun 7 – Jul 12 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 10 | Jun 21 – Jul 26 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Apr 5 | May 17 | May 24 | Aug 2 – Sep 20 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | May 17 | — | Jul 12 – Sep 6 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Mar 15 | May 17 | May 24 | Aug 23 – Oct 11 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Mar 15 | May 17 | May 24 | Jul 19 – Aug 30 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Apr 5 | May 17 | May 24 | Jul 12 – Sep 6 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Stevens County
27 fruits that grow well in Zone 5b with planting dates for Stevens County.
Show all 27 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 31 | Aug 30 – Nov 15 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | May 31 | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 31 | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | May 31 | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 31 | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 31 | Aug 9 – Sep 13 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 31 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | May 31 | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | May 31 | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 31 | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 31 | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | May 31 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 31 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 31 | Aug 9 – Oct 4 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | May 31 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | May 31 | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 31 | Aug 23 – Oct 4 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | May 31 | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | May 31 | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | May 31 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 31 | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 31 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 31 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Quince | — | — | May 31 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 31 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 31 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 31 | Aug 30 – Nov 15 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Stevens County
37 herbs that grow well in Zone 5b with planting dates for Stevens County.
Show all 37 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 3 | Aug 2 – Oct 18 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 22 | May 17 | May 24 | Jul 19 – Sep 20 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 17 | Aug 16 – Nov 1 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 3 | Jun 28 – Aug 16 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 17 | Jul 19 – Sep 20 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 3 | Jul 5 – Sep 13 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 3 | Jun 14 – Aug 16 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 17 | Jul 19 – Sep 27 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 3 | Jun 14 – Aug 16 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 17 | Jul 19 – Sep 27 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 3 | Aug 16 – Oct 18 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 3 | Jun 14 – Aug 16 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | May 17 | Sep 20 – Nov 1 | 120–180 |
| Epazote | Mar 22 | May 17 | May 24 | Jul 12 – Sep 6 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 3 | Jul 5 – Sep 13 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | May 17 | Aug 16 – Nov 1 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | May 17 | Jul 19 – Sep 27 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | May 17 | Aug 2 – Sep 27 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | May 17 | Jul 26 – Sep 27 | 70–90 |
| Lavender | — | — | May 17 | Aug 16 – Nov 1 | 90–200 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | May 17 | Jul 19 – Sep 6 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | May 17 | Jul 26 – Sep 27 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | May 17 | Jul 26 – Sep 27 | 70–90 |
| Mint | — | — | May 17 | Jul 19 – Sep 27 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | May 17 | Jul 19 – Sep 27 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 3 | Jul 5 – Sep 6 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | May 17 | Jul 26 – Sep 27 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | May 17 | Aug 2 – Sep 27 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | May 17 | Jul 12 – Sep 6 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Apr 5 | Apr 26 | May 3 | Jun 14 – Aug 16 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | May 17 | Jul 19 – Sep 27 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 22 | May 17 | May 24 | Jul 19 – Sep 20 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | May 17 | Jul 26 – Sep 27 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 17 | Sep 20 – Nov 1 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | May 17 | Aug 16 – Nov 1 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Stevens County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Stevens County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Stevens County, WA?
Stevens County is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5b. 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 Stevens County, WA?
Based on 30 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Stevens County falls around May 10. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between April 23 and May 29 — a 36-day window of variability. Use May 29 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Stevens County, WA?
The median first fall frost in Stevens County arrives around September 24. In cold years it can arrive as early as September 7; in mild years as late as October 12. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Stevens County?
Stevens County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 137 days. Focus on short-season varieties and start warm-season crops indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost.
What is the soil like in Stevens County for gardening?
Stevens County has predominantly Silt Loam soil with a pH range of 5.3–6.3 and Moderately Well Drained drainage. Most vegetables and herbs grow well with standard composting and seasonal soil amendment.
What is grown commercially in Stevens County?
Stevens County has commercial agriculture that includes Wheat, Hay, Apples, Potatoes. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Stevens County a good location for home gardening?
Stevens County scores 72/100 (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 Stevens County gardeners in Zone 5b organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
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