Chippewa County, WI — Planting Guide
Chippewa County is in USDA Zone 4a. The average last spring frost is May 15 and the first fall frost is September 28, giving you a growing season of approximately 136 days.
At an elevation of 916 ft, Chippewa County receives approximately 40.4 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 83°F with winter lows around 4°F. The predominant soil type is Silt Loam.
Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 28 days year to year — ranging from April 28 in warm years to May 26 in cold years. The growing season is trending shorter by about 1.16 days per decade. Chippewa County scores 70/100 (Good) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
4a (-30°F to -25°F min)
❄️ Last Frost
May 15
🍂 First Frost
September 28
📅 Growing Season
136 days
⛰️ Elevation
916 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
40.4 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 | 1.6 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.6 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Mar | 2.8 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Apr | 3.6 in | 9 days | 0.7 in | Moderate |
| May | 4.3 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 5.3 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 4.2 in | 9 days | 0.1 in | Low |
| Aug | 4.2 in | 9 days | 0.1 in | Low |
| Sep | 4.3 in | 7 days | — | Low |
| Oct | 3.4 in | 8 days | 0.9 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 2.5 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Dec | 2.5 in | 8 days | — | None |
Annual total: 40.3 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.
Chippewa County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.8-6.7
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 13 | 140 days |
| Cautious | May 19 | Oct 3 | 137 days |
| Average year | May 15 | Sep 28 | 136 days |
| Optimistic | May 11 | Sep 22 | 134 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 28 | Sep 12 | 137 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±28 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 1.2 days per decade). Use the "Conservative" dates and choose fast-maturing varieties.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Chippewa County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Chippewa 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 Chippewa County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Chippewa County University of Wisconsin-Madison Division of Extension Extension Office
Phone: 608-263-7779
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 Chippewa County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Chippewa County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Chippewa 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 Chippewa County WI" or "garden center Chippewa 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 Chippewa County WI" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Chippewa County Gardeners" or "Wisconsin 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
9.5 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 | 8.9 hr | 3.5 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.2 hr | 4.3 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.6 hr | 5.3 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.3 hr | 6.9 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.7 hr | 8.4 hr | Long day |
| June | 15.4 hr | 9.5 hr | Long day |
| July | 15.1 hr | 9.4 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.9 hr | 8.3 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.3 hr | 6.8 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.7 hr | 5.4 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.3 hr | 3.7 hr | Short day |
| December | 8.6 hr | 3.2 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
Jun
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 | 13°F | 22°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 15°F | 23°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 25°F | 29°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 39°F | 38°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| May | 53°F | 49°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 65°F | 59°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 71°F | 66°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 73°F | 69°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 67°F | 63°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 53°F | 55°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 35°F | 44°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 Chippewa 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
Moderate — watch for mildew and blight during wet periods.
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 | Low | Jun, Jul |
| Flea beetles | Low | May, Jun, Jul |
| Slugs | Low | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
Organic pest management tips
- Use row covers on susceptible crops during peak pest months
- Apply neem oil preventatively every 7-14 days during active pest season
- Interplant with strong-scented herbs (basil, marigold) to confuse pests
- Hand-pick larger pests (beetles, caterpillars) in early morning when they're sluggish
- Practice crop rotation — never plant the same family in the same spot within 3 years
Cover Crops for Chippewa County
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with county-specific planting dates.
Fall Cover Crops (5 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Daikon radish | Aug 9 | May 1 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 23 | Apr 24 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 2 | May 1 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 5 | May 1 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jun 22 | Apr 24 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Spring Cover Crops (2 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | May 19 | Aug 3 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| White clover | Apr 18 | Jul 20 | ✓ 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 | May 28 | Aug 31 | — | 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: 11 mph Summer: 8 mph
Fall: 9 mph Winter: 12 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
4.8/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (186 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
20,085 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 1,500 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
May, Jun, Jul, Sep
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 40.3 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 20,085 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- 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 Chippewa County
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH 5.8–6.7 · Excessively Drained drainage
Native soil is well-suited to most vegetables and herbs with regular compost additions.
Watering Needs
Drought stress: 3.5/10
Low-to-moderate drought stress. Plan to water 1–2 times per week during peak summer. (40.4 in. annual rainfall)
Season Tips
136-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 Chippewa County
96 vegetables that grow well in Zone 4a with planting dates for Chippewa County.
Show all 96 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Apr 3 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Aug 28 – Oct 2 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 13 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Sep 4 – Oct 23 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Jun 19 – Aug 21 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 29 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | May 8 | — | Jul 3 – Jul 31 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Sep 4 – Oct 9 | 110–150 |
| Black Beans | — | May 29 | — | Aug 28 – Oct 16 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Jun 26 – Jul 31 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Jul 17 – Aug 28 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Jun 26 – Jul 31 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Aug 14 – Oct 9 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Apr 3 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Sep 4 – Oct 9 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Jul 17 – Sep 11 | 60–100 |
| Carrots | — | May 8 | — | Jul 10 – Aug 14 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Jul 10 – Sep 11 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Aug 28 – Oct 2 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Aug 7 – Oct 2 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Jul 17 – Aug 28 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Jul 10 – Aug 28 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Aug 7 – Sep 18 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Jul 17 – Aug 28 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Jul 10 – Aug 7 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 13 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Aug 28 – Oct 2 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Jul 10 – Sep 11 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | May 29 | — | Jul 31 – Sep 25 | 60–100 |
| Cress | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | May 29 – Jun 19 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Apr 3 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Jul 24 – Aug 21 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | May 8 | — | Oct 9 – Oct 2 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Apr 3 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Jul 31 – Sep 25 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | May 8 | — | Jul 3 – Jul 31 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Apr 3 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Aug 28 – Oct 2 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | May 29 | — | Aug 14 – Sep 25 | 75–100 |
| Endive | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Jul 3 – Aug 7 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Jul 10 – Aug 7 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Jul 31 – Sep 11 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 13 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Aug 7 – Sep 18 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | May 29 | — | Jul 24 – Sep 18 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 29 | Oct 2 – Oct 23 | 120–180 |
| Hubbard Squash | Apr 3 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Sep 18 – Oct 23 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Apr 3 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Sep 4 – Oct 2 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Jul 3 – Jul 31 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Jul 10 – Sep 4 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | May 29 | — | Aug 28 – Oct 2 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Jul 3 – Aug 7 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Jun 19 – Jul 24 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Aug 14 – Oct 9 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Aug 7 – Sep 18 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Jun 19 – Aug 28 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | May 29 | — | Jul 31 – Sep 11 | 60–90 |
| Mache | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Jun 26 – Jul 31 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Apr 3 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Aug 14 – Oct 2 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | May 22 – Jun 19 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 8 | Jul 3 – Aug 28 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Jun 19 – Jul 17 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Jun 19 – Aug 21 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Jul 10 – Aug 14 | 55–75 |
| Onion | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Aug 14 – Oct 2 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Jun 26 – Jul 24 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | May 8 | — | Aug 21 – Oct 2 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Apr 3 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Jul 24 – Aug 21 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Jul 10 – Sep 4 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 27 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Aug 7 – Oct 16 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 13 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Jul 31 – Sep 25 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 13 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Aug 14 – Oct 23 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Apr 3 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Sep 4 – Oct 23 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Jun 26 – Jul 31 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Jul 17 – Aug 21 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | May 8 | — | Jun 5 – Jun 26 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Jun 12 | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Jul 31 – Sep 11 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | May 8 | — | Jul 31 – Sep 4 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | May 8 | — | Aug 21 – Oct 2 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Jul 24 – Sep 18 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Jul 10 – Aug 7 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 13 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Aug 7 – Sep 11 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Aug 14 – Oct 2 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 20 | May 22 | Jun 5 | Jul 31 – Sep 25 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 13 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Jul 31 – Sep 25 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Jul 10 – Sep 4 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | May 29 | — | Aug 21 – Oct 16 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Apr 3 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Sep 4 – Oct 2 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Jun 19 – Aug 21 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Apr 3 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Jul 24 – Sep 25 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Apr 3 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Aug 28 – Oct 23 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 29 | Sep 18 – Oct 23 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Mar 13 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Aug 14 – Oct 2 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | May 29 | — | Jul 31 – Sep 11 | 60–90 |
| Tatsoi | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Jun 19 – Jul 24 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 13 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Aug 7 – Oct 16 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 13 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Aug 7 – Oct 16 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | May 8 | — | Jun 19 – Jul 24 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 15 | Jun 26 – Jul 31 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Apr 3 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Aug 14 – Oct 2 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | May 29 | — | Jul 24 – Sep 18 | 50–65 |
| Zucchini | Apr 3 | May 29 | Jun 5 | Jul 24 – Sep 18 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Chippewa County
22 fruits that grow well in Zone 4a with planting dates for Chippewa County.
Show all 22 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Jun 12 | Sep 11 – Nov 6 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Jun 12 | — | 730–1095 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Jun 12 | — | 730–1095 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Jun 12 | Aug 21 – Sep 25 | 70–90 |
| 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 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Jun 12 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Jun 12 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Jun 12 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Jun 12 | Sep 11 – Nov 6 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Chippewa County
32 herbs that grow well in Zone 4a with planting dates for Chippewa County.
Show all 32 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 8 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 8 | Aug 7 – Oct 2 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 20 | May 22 | Jun 5 | Jul 31 – Oct 2 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 22 | Aug 21 – Oct 16 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 8 | Jul 3 – Aug 21 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 8 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 22 | Jul 24 – Sep 25 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 8 | Jul 10 – Sep 18 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 8 | Jun 19 – Aug 21 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 22 | Jul 24 – Oct 2 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 8 | Jun 19 – Aug 21 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 22 | Jul 24 – Oct 2 | 60–90 |
| Dill | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 8 | Jun 19 – Aug 21 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | May 22 | Sep 25 – Oct 16 | 120–180 |
| Fennel (herb) | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 8 | Jul 10 – Sep 18 | 60–90 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | May 22 | Jul 24 – Oct 2 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | May 22 | Aug 7 – Oct 2 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | May 22 | Jul 31 – Oct 2 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | May 22 | Jul 24 – Sep 11 | 60–70 |
| Lovage | — | — | May 22 | Jul 31 – Oct 2 | 70–90 |
| Mint | — | — | May 22 | Jul 24 – Oct 2 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | May 22 | Jul 24 – Oct 2 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 8 | Jul 10 – Sep 11 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | May 22 | Jul 31 – Oct 2 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | May 22 | Aug 7 – Oct 2 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | May 22 | Jul 17 – Sep 11 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Apr 3 | May 8 | May 8 | Jun 19 – Aug 21 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | May 22 | Jul 24 – Oct 2 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 20 | May 22 | Jun 5 | Jul 31 – Oct 2 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | May 22 | Jul 31 – Oct 2 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 22 | Sep 25 – Oct 16 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | May 22 | Aug 21 – Oct 16 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Chippewa County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Chippewa County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Chippewa County, WI?
Chippewa 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 Chippewa County, WI?
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Chippewa County falls around May 15. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between April 28 and May 26 — a 28-day window of variability. Use May 26 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Chippewa County, WI?
The median first fall frost in Chippewa County arrives around September 28. In cold years it can arrive as early as September 12; in mild years as late as October 13. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Chippewa County?
Chippewa County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 136 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 1.16 days per decade.
What is the soil like in Chippewa County for gardening?
Chippewa County has predominantly Silt Loam soil with a pH range of 5.8–6.7 and Excessively Drained drainage. Most vegetables and herbs grow well with standard composting and seasonal soil amendment.
What is grown commercially in Chippewa County?
Chippewa County has commercial agriculture that includes Corn, Soybeans, Hay, Sweet Corn, Oats. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Chippewa County a good location for home gardening?
Chippewa 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.
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