Oneida County, WI — Planting Guide
Oneida County is in USDA Zone 4a. The average last spring frost is May 20 and the first fall frost is September 28, giving you a growing season of approximately 131 days.
At an elevation of 569 ft, Oneida County receives approximately 39.8 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 82°F with winter lows around 7°F. The predominant soil type is Silt Loam.
Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 25 days year to year — ranging from May 8 in warm years to June 2 in cold years. The growing season is trending shorter by about 0.72 days per decade. Oneida County scores 73/100 (Good) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
4a (-30°F to -25°F min)
❄️ Last Frost
May 20
🍂 First Frost
September 28
📅 Growing Season
131 days
⛰️ Elevation
569 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
39.8 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 | 1.9 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.6 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Mar | 2.7 in | 10 days | — | None |
| Apr | 4.2 in | 9 days | 0.1 in | Low |
| May | 4.9 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 4.6 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 4.4 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 3.9 in | 8 days | 0.4 in | Low |
| Sep | 3.5 in | 7 days | 0.8 in | Moderate |
| Oct | 3.3 in | 8 days | 1 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 2.5 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Dec | 2.3 in | 7 days | — | None |
Annual total: 39.8 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.
Oneida County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.3-7.1
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) | Jun 2 | Oct 9 | 129 days |
| Cautious | May 26 | Oct 2 | 129 days |
| Average year | May 20 | Sep 28 | 131 days |
| Optimistic | May 15 | Sep 20 | 128 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | May 8 | Sep 13 | 128 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±25 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 (0.7 days/decade). Stay conservative with planting dates.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Oneida County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Oneida 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 Oneida County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Oneida 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 Oneida County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Oneida County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Oneida 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 Oneida County WI" or "garden center Oneida 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 Oneida County WI" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Oneida 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
15.5 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
8.5 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
10.1 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 | 3.7 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.1 hr | 4.5 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.6 hr | 5.4 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.3 hr | 6.8 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.7 hr | 8.4 hr | Long day |
| June | 15.5 hr | 10.1 hr | Long day |
| July | 15.2 hr | 10.1 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.9 hr | 8.5 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.3 hr | 7.2 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.7 hr | 5.5 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.2 hr | 3.6 hr | Short day |
| December | 8.5 hr | 3.3 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 | 16°F | 24°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 15°F | 22°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 25°F | 30°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 42°F | 39°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| May | 55°F | 50°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 63°F | 60°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jul | 72°F | 66°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 72°F | 68°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 65°F | 64°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 53°F | 55°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 36°F | 42°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Dec | 23°F | 30°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 Oneida 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 | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul |
| Slugs | Moderate | 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 Oneida 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 19 | Apr 29 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 16 | Apr 29 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Aug 18 | Apr 29 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jun 19 | May 6 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jun 21 | May 6 | — | 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 27 | Aug 3 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| White clover | Apr 20 | 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 | Jun 3 | Sep 7 | — | 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: 13 mph Summer: 9 mph
Fall: 9 mph Winter: 12 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
4.9/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (295 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
19,836 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
Apr, May, Jun, Jul
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 39.8 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 19,836 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 Oneida County
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH 6.3–7.1 · Well 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. (39.8 in. annual rainfall)
Season Tips
131-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 Oneida County
96 vegetables that grow well in Zone 4a with planting dates for Oneida County.
Show all 96 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Apr 8 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Sep 2 – Oct 7 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 18 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Sep 9 – Oct 28 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jun 24 – Aug 26 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Jun 3 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | May 13 | — | Jul 8 – Aug 5 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Sep 9 – Oct 14 | 110–150 |
| Black Beans | — | Jun 3 | — | Sep 2 – Oct 21 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jul 1 – Aug 5 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jul 22 – Sep 2 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jul 1 – Aug 5 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Aug 19 – Oct 14 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Apr 8 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Sep 9 – Oct 14 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jul 22 – Sep 16 | 60–100 |
| Carrots | — | May 13 | — | Jul 15 – Aug 19 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jul 15 – Sep 16 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Sep 2 – Oct 7 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Aug 12 – Oct 7 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jul 22 – Sep 2 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jul 15 – Sep 2 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Aug 12 – Sep 23 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jul 22 – Sep 2 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jul 15 – Aug 12 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 18 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Sep 2 – Oct 7 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jul 15 – Sep 16 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Jun 3 | — | Aug 5 – Sep 30 | 60–100 |
| Cress | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jun 3 – Jun 24 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Apr 8 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Jul 29 – Aug 26 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | May 13 | — | Oct 14 – Oct 7 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Apr 8 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Aug 5 – Sep 30 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | May 13 | — | Jul 8 – Aug 5 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Apr 8 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Sep 2 – Oct 7 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Jun 3 | — | Aug 19 – Sep 30 | 75–100 |
| Endive | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jul 8 – Aug 12 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jul 15 – Aug 12 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Aug 5 – Sep 16 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 18 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Aug 12 – Sep 23 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | Jun 3 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 23 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Jun 3 | Oct 7 – Oct 28 | 120–180 |
| Hubbard Squash | Apr 8 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Sep 23 – Oct 28 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Apr 8 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Sep 9 – Oct 7 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jul 8 – Aug 5 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jul 15 – Sep 9 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Jun 3 | — | Sep 2 – Oct 7 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jul 8 – Aug 12 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jun 24 – Jul 29 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Aug 19 – Oct 14 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Aug 12 – Sep 23 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jun 24 – Sep 2 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Jun 3 | — | Aug 5 – Sep 16 | 60–90 |
| Mache | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jul 1 – Aug 5 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Apr 8 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Aug 19 – Oct 7 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | May 27 – Jun 24 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 13 | Jul 8 – Sep 2 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jun 24 – Jul 22 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jun 24 – Aug 26 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jul 15 – Aug 19 | 55–75 |
| Onion | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Aug 19 – Oct 7 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jul 1 – Jul 29 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | May 13 | — | Aug 26 – Oct 7 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Apr 8 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Jul 29 – Aug 26 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jul 15 – Sep 9 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Mar 4 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Aug 12 – Oct 21 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 18 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Aug 5 – Sep 30 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 18 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Aug 19 – Oct 28 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Apr 8 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Sep 9 – Oct 28 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jul 1 – Aug 5 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jul 22 – Aug 26 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | May 13 | — | Jun 10 – Jul 1 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Jun 17 | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Aug 5 – Sep 16 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | May 13 | — | Aug 5 – Sep 9 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | May 13 | — | Aug 26 – Oct 7 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jul 29 – Sep 23 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jul 15 – Aug 12 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 18 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Aug 12 – Sep 16 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Aug 19 – Oct 7 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 25 | May 27 | Jun 10 | Aug 5 – Sep 30 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 18 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Aug 5 – Sep 30 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jul 15 – Sep 9 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Jun 3 | — | Aug 26 – Oct 21 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Apr 8 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Sep 9 – Oct 7 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jun 24 – Aug 26 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Apr 8 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Jul 29 – Sep 30 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Apr 8 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Sep 2 – Oct 28 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Jun 3 | Sep 23 – Oct 28 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Mar 18 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Aug 19 – Oct 7 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Jun 3 | — | Aug 5 – Sep 16 | 60–90 |
| Tatsoi | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jun 24 – Jul 29 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 18 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Aug 12 – Oct 21 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 18 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Aug 12 – Oct 21 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | May 13 | — | Jun 24 – Jul 29 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 20 | Jul 1 – Aug 5 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Apr 8 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Aug 19 – Oct 7 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Jun 3 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 23 | 50–65 |
| Zucchini | Apr 8 | Jun 3 | Jun 10 | Jul 29 – Sep 23 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Oneida County
22 fruits that grow well in Zone 4a with planting dates for Oneida County.
Show all 22 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Jun 17 | Sep 16 – Nov 11 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Jun 17 | — | 730–1095 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Jun 17 | — | 730–1095 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Jun 17 | Aug 26 – Sep 30 | 70–90 |
| Cranberries | — | — | Jun 17 | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | Jun 17 | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Jun 17 | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Jun 17 | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Jun 17 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Jun 17 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Jun 17 | Aug 26 – Oct 21 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Jun 17 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | Jun 17 | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Jun 17 | Sep 9 – Oct 21 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Jun 17 | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | Jun 17 | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | Jun 17 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Jun 17 | — | 730–1825 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Jun 17 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Jun 17 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Jun 17 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Jun 17 | Sep 16 – Nov 11 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Oneida County
32 herbs that grow well in Zone 4a with planting dates for Oneida County.
Show all 32 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 13 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 13 | Aug 12 – Oct 7 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 25 | May 27 | Jun 10 | Aug 5 – Oct 7 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 27 | Aug 26 – Oct 21 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 13 | Jul 8 – Aug 26 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 13 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 27 | Jul 29 – Sep 30 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 13 | Jul 15 – Sep 23 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 13 | Jun 24 – Aug 26 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 27 | Jul 29 – Oct 7 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 13 | Jun 24 – Aug 26 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 27 | Jul 29 – Oct 7 | 60–90 |
| Dill | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 13 | Jun 24 – Aug 26 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | May 27 | Sep 30 – Oct 21 | 120–180 |
| Fennel (herb) | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 13 | Jul 15 – Sep 23 | 60–90 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | May 27 | Jul 29 – Oct 7 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | May 27 | Aug 12 – Oct 7 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | May 27 | Aug 5 – Oct 7 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | May 27 | Jul 29 – Sep 16 | 60–70 |
| Lovage | — | — | May 27 | Aug 5 – Oct 7 | 70–90 |
| Mint | — | — | May 27 | Jul 29 – Oct 7 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | May 27 | Jul 29 – Oct 7 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 13 | Jul 15 – Sep 16 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | May 27 | Aug 5 – Oct 7 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | May 27 | Aug 12 – Oct 7 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | May 27 | Jul 22 – Sep 16 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Apr 8 | May 13 | May 13 | Jun 24 – Aug 26 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | May 27 | Jul 29 – Oct 7 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 25 | May 27 | Jun 10 | Aug 5 – Oct 7 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | May 27 | Aug 5 – Oct 7 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 27 | Sep 30 – Oct 21 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | May 27 | Aug 26 – Oct 21 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Oneida County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Oneida County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Oneida County, WI?
Oneida 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 Oneida County, WI?
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Oneida County falls around May 20. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between May 8 and June 2 — a 25-day window of variability. Use June 2 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Oneida County, WI?
The median first fall frost in Oneida County arrives around September 28. In cold years it can arrive as early as September 13; in mild years as late as October 9. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Oneida County?
Oneida County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 131 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 0.72 days per decade.
What is the soil like in Oneida County for gardening?
Oneida County has predominantly Silt Loam soil with a pH range of 6.3–7.1 and Well Drained drainage. Most vegetables and herbs grow well with standard composting and seasonal soil amendment.
What is grown commercially in Oneida County?
Oneida County has commercial agriculture that includes Corn, Soybeans, Hay. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Oneida County a good location for home gardening?
Oneida County scores 73/100 (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 Oneida County gardeners in Zone 4a 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.
