Dodge County, WI — Planting Guide
Dodge County is in USDA Zone 4b. The average last spring frost is April 27 and the first fall frost is October 11, giving you a growing season of approximately 167 days.
At an elevation of 1,235 ft, Dodge County receives approximately 34 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 83°F with winter lows around 2°F. The predominant soil type is Silt Loam.
Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 24 days year to year — ranging from April 18 in warm years to May 13 in cold years. The growing season is trending longer by about 0.61 days per decade. Dodge County scores 71/100 (Good) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
4b (-25°F to -20°F min)
❄️ Last Frost
April 27
🍂 First Frost
October 11
📅 Growing Season
167 days
⛰️ Elevation
1,235 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
34 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 | 1.3 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.7 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Mar | 2 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Apr | 2.9 in | 9 days | 1.4 in | Moderate |
| May | 3.9 in | 9 days | 0.4 in | Low |
| Jun | 4.6 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 3.8 in | 9 days | 0.5 in | Low |
| Aug | 3.5 in | 9 days | 0.8 in | Moderate |
| Sep | 3.2 in | 7 days | 1.1 in | Moderate |
| Oct | 2.7 in | 7 days | 1.6 in | High |
| Nov | 2.3 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Dec | 2 in | 9 days | — | None |
Annual total: 33.9 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.
Dodge County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6-7.1
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 13 | Oct 25 | 165 days |
| Cautious | May 3 | Oct 16 | 166 days |
| Average year | Apr 27 | Oct 11 | 167 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 24 | Oct 5 | 164 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 18 | Oct 1 | 166 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±24 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Slightly — seasons are trending a bit longer (0.6 days/decade). Historical frost dates are still reliable for planning.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Dodge County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Dodge 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 Dodge County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Dodge 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 Dodge County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Dodge County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Dodge 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 Dodge County WI" or "garden center Dodge 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 Dodge County WI" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Dodge 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
15.2 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
8.8 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
9.4 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 | 3.6 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.3 hr | 4.6 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.6 hr | 5.8 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.2 hr | 6.8 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.5 hr | 8.1 hr | Long day |
| June | 15.2 hr | 9.2 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.9 hr | 9.4 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.8 hr | 8.4 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.3 hr | 7.1 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.8 hr | 5.4 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.4 hr | 3.9 hr | Short day |
| December | 8.8 hr | 3.5 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 | 14°F | 23°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 18°F | 22°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 24°F | 27°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 39°F | 38°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| May | 54°F | 49°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 66°F | 60°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 72°F | 66°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 73°F | 68°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 66°F | 62°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 53°F | 54°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 37°F | 44°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Dec | 23°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 Dodge County
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Insect Pest Pressure
Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.
Disease Risk
Low disease risk — dry conditions reduce fungal problems.
Seasonal Risk
View 5 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Cabbage worms | Low | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Colorado potato beetle | Low | Jun, Jul |
| Flea beetles | Low | May, Jun, Jul |
| Slugs | Low | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
Organic pest management tips
- Maintain healthy soil with regular compost additions to build natural pest resistance
- Practice crop rotation annually to break pest cycles
- Encourage beneficial insects with flowering herbs like dill, fennel, and yarrow
Cover Crops for Dodge County
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with county-specific planting dates.
Spring Cover Crops (2 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | May 8 | Aug 2 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| White clover | Apr 1 | Aug 2 | ✓ 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 23 | Sep 27 | — | 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 26 | Apr 13 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 26 | Apr 13 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 3 | Apr 13 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 5 | Apr 13 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 10 | Apr 13 | — | 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: 12 mph Summer: 9 mph
Fall: 11 mph Winter: 12 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
6.6/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (136 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
16,895 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 1,750 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
May, Jun, Jul, Aug
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Jan, Feb, 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 33.9 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 16,895 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 Dodge County
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH 6–7.1 · Excessively Drained drainage
Native soil is well-suited to most vegetables and herbs with regular compost additions.
Watering Needs
Drought stress: 5.5/10
Moderate drought pressure. Drip irrigation and mulching are highly recommended to maintain soil moisture through summer.
Season Tips
167-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 Dodge County
96 vegetables that grow well in Zone 4b with planting dates for Dodge County.
Show all 96 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 16 | May 11 | May 18 | Aug 10 – Sep 14 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 23 | May 11 | May 18 | Aug 17 – Oct 5 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jun 1 – Aug 3 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 11 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 15 – Jul 13 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Aug 17 – Sep 21 | 110–150 |
| Black Beans | — | May 11 | — | Aug 10 – Sep 28 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jun 8 – Jul 13 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jun 29 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jun 8 – Jul 13 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jul 27 – Sep 21 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 16 | May 11 | May 18 | Aug 17 – Sep 21 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jun 29 – Aug 24 | 60–100 |
| Carrots | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Jul 27 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Aug 10 – Sep 14 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jun 29 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jun 22 – Aug 10 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jul 20 – Aug 31 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jun 29 – Aug 10 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jun 22 – Jul 20 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 23 | May 11 | May 18 | Aug 10 – Sep 14 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | May 11 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 60–100 |
| Cress | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | May 11 – Jun 1 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 16 | May 11 | May 18 | Jul 6 – Aug 3 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Apr 20 | — | Sep 21 – Sep 14 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 16 | May 11 | May 18 | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 15 – Jul 13 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 16 | May 11 | May 18 | Aug 10 – Sep 14 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | May 11 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 7 | 75–100 |
| Endive | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jun 22 – Jul 20 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jul 13 – Aug 24 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 23 | May 11 | May 18 | Jul 20 – Aug 31 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | May 11 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 11 | Sep 14 – Oct 5 | 120–180 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 16 | May 11 | May 18 | Aug 31 – Oct 5 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Mar 16 | May 11 | May 18 | Aug 17 – Sep 14 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jun 15 – Jul 13 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | May 11 | — | Aug 10 – Sep 14 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jun 1 – Jul 6 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jul 27 – Sep 21 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jul 20 – Aug 31 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jun 1 – Aug 10 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | May 11 | — | Jul 13 – Aug 24 | 60–90 |
| Mache | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jun 8 – Jul 13 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Mar 16 | May 11 | May 18 | Jul 27 – Sep 14 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | May 4 – Jun 1 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 20 | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jun 1 – Jun 29 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jun 1 – Aug 3 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jun 22 – Jul 27 | 55–75 |
| Onion | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jul 27 – Sep 14 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jun 8 – Jul 6 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Apr 20 | — | Aug 3 – Sep 14 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 16 | May 11 | May 18 | Jul 6 – Aug 3 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 9 | May 11 | May 18 | Jul 20 – Sep 28 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 23 | May 11 | May 18 | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 23 | May 11 | May 18 | Jul 27 – Oct 5 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 16 | May 11 | May 18 | Aug 17 – Oct 5 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jun 8 – Jul 13 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jun 29 – Aug 3 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Apr 20 | — | May 18 – Jun 8 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 25 | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jul 13 – Aug 24 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Apr 20 | — | Jul 13 – Aug 17 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Apr 20 | — | Aug 3 – Sep 14 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jun 22 – Jul 20 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 23 | May 11 | May 18 | Jul 20 – Aug 24 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jul 27 – Sep 14 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 2 | May 4 | May 18 | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 23 | May 11 | May 18 | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | May 11 | — | Aug 3 – Sep 28 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 16 | May 11 | May 18 | Aug 17 – Sep 14 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jun 1 – Aug 3 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 16 | May 11 | May 18 | Jul 6 – Sep 7 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 16 | May 11 | May 18 | Aug 10 – Oct 5 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 11 | Aug 31 – Oct 5 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Feb 23 | May 11 | May 18 | Jul 27 – Sep 14 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | May 11 | — | Jul 13 – Aug 24 | 60–90 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jun 1 – Jul 6 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 23 | May 11 | May 18 | Jul 20 – Sep 28 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 23 | May 11 | May 18 | Jul 20 – Sep 28 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 1 – Jul 6 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 27 | Jun 8 – Jul 13 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 16 | May 11 | May 18 | Jul 27 – Sep 14 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | May 11 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 50–65 |
| Zucchini | Mar 16 | May 11 | May 18 | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Dodge County
22 fruits that grow well in Zone 4b with planting dates for Dodge County.
Show all 22 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 25 | Aug 24 – Oct 19 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | May 25 | — | 730–1095 |
| Blueberries | — | — | May 25 | — | 730–1095 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 25 | Aug 3 – Sep 7 | 70–90 |
| Cranberries | — | — | May 25 | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | May 25 | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 25 | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 25 | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | May 25 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 25 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 25 | Aug 3 – Sep 28 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | May 25 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | May 25 | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 25 | Aug 17 – Sep 28 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | May 25 | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | May 25 | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | May 25 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 25 | — | 730–1825 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 25 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 25 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 25 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 25 | Aug 24 – Oct 19 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Dodge County
32 herbs that grow well in Zone 4b with planting dates for Dodge County.
Show all 32 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 20 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 20 | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 2 | May 4 | May 18 | Jul 13 – Sep 14 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 4 | Aug 3 – Sep 28 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 20 | Jun 15 – Aug 3 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 20 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 4 | Jul 6 – Sep 7 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 20 | Jun 22 – Aug 31 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 20 | Jun 1 – Aug 3 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 4 | Jul 6 – Sep 14 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 20 | Jun 1 – Aug 3 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 4 | Jul 6 – Sep 14 | 60–90 |
| Dill | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 20 | Jun 1 – Aug 3 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | May 4 | Sep 7 – Sep 28 | 120–180 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 20 | Jun 22 – Aug 31 | 60–90 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | May 4 | Jul 6 – Sep 14 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | May 4 | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | May 4 | Jul 13 – Sep 14 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | May 4 | Jul 6 – Aug 24 | 60–70 |
| Lovage | — | — | May 4 | Jul 13 – Sep 14 | 70–90 |
| Mint | — | — | May 4 | Jul 6 – Sep 14 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | May 4 | Jul 6 – Sep 14 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 20 | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | May 4 | Jul 13 – Sep 14 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | May 4 | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | May 4 | Jun 29 – Aug 24 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 16 | Apr 20 | Apr 20 | Jun 1 – Aug 3 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | May 4 | Jul 6 – Sep 14 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 2 | May 4 | May 18 | Jul 13 – Sep 14 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | May 4 | Jul 13 – Sep 14 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 4 | Sep 7 – Sep 28 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | May 4 | Aug 3 – Sep 28 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Dodge County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Dodge County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Dodge County, WI?
Dodge County is in USDA Hardiness Zone 4b. 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 Dodge County, WI?
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Dodge County falls around April 27. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between April 18 and May 13 — a 24-day window of variability. Use May 13 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Dodge County, WI?
The median first fall frost in Dodge County arrives around October 11. In cold years it can arrive as early as October 1; in mild years as late as October 25. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Dodge County?
Dodge County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 167 days. This is enough time for most warm-season crops including tomatoes, peppers, and squash with proper timing. Climate records show the growing season is trending longer by about 0.61 days per decade.
What is the soil like in Dodge County for gardening?
Dodge County has predominantly Silt Loam soil with a pH range of 6–7.1 and Excessively Drained drainage. Most vegetables and herbs grow well with standard composting and seasonal soil amendment.
What is grown commercially in Dodge County?
Dodge County has commercial agriculture that includes Corn, Soybeans, Dairy, Hay, Oats. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Dodge County a good location for home gardening?
Dodge County scores 71/100 (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 Dodge County gardeners in Zone 4b organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
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