Planting Dates for Montana
Montana's vast landscape encompasses both short-season prairie growing in the east and mountain gardening in the west. Long summer days and intense sunshine help compensate for the short season.
USDA Zones 3a-6a • 90-145 frost-free days depending on location
Frost Dates in Montana
Average last spring frost and first fall frost dates for Montana cities. Use these to calculate your planting windows.
| City | Last Spring Frost | First Fall Frost | Frost-Free Days | USDA Zone |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Billings | May 13 | Sep 23 | 133 | 5a |
| Missoula | May 15 | Sep 20 | 128 | 5b |
| Great Falls | May 15 | Sep 20 | 128 | 4b |
Gardening Tips for Montana
- ✓Western Montana valleys (like Missoula and the Bitterroot) offer the best growing conditions.
- ✓Eastern Montana's prairies have extreme temperature swings — use mulch and windbreaks.
- ✓Long summer days (16+ hours) accelerate crop growth despite the short season.
- ✓Plan for last frost around May 15-June 1 depending on elevation and location.
What to Plant in Montana
Cold-Hardy Crops (plant early)
These crops tolerate frost and can be planted 2-6 weeks before your last frost date.
30-60 days from sowing
55-70 days from sowing
60-80 days from sowing
50-70 days from sowing
55-80 days from transplant
35-50 days from sowing
20-35 days from sowing
July-August the following year
90-120 days from transplant
70-120 days from planting
50-70 days from sowing
50-60 days from sowing
Warm-Season Crops (plant after last frost)
Start these indoors and transplant after all frost danger has passed.
60-85 days from transplant
60-90 days from transplant
50-65 days from sowing
50-65 days from sowing
45-60 days from sowing
60-100 days from sowing
30-60 days from sowing
Get Exact Planting Dates for Montana
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Frequently Asked Questions
When is the last frost date in Montana?
Last frost dates in Montana vary by city: Billings (May 13), Missoula (May 15), Great Falls (May 15).
What USDA hardiness zones are in Montana?
Montana spans USDA hardiness zones 3a-6a. Your specific zone determines which perennials survive winter and when to start planting annuals.
What vegetables grow best in Montana?
Hardy crops like peas, kale, spinach, and garlic thrive across Montana. In warmer zones, tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers do well with proper timing. Use our free calculator for exact planting dates.
How long is the growing season in Montana?
90-145 frost-free days depending on location. Extend your season with cold frames, row covers, and indoor seed starting.
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Calculate exact planting dates based on your location and frost dates.