Bismarck, ND Planting Calendar (What to Plant by Month)

Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Bismarck, ND, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 4a.

Bismarck, ND Frost Dates & Growing Season

Last Spring Frost Date for Bismarck, ND

The average last frost date in spring for Bismarck is May 20th. For gardeners planting sensitive crops like tomatoes, peppers, and basil, it is generally recommended to wait until June 3rd before moving plants outdoors. Waiting these extra few weeks significantly reduces the risk of a late freeze damaging young transplants.

First Fall Frost Date for Bismarck, ND

The average first frost date in fall for Bismarck is September 25th. This date marks the approximate end of the growing season for tender plants. Gardeners should plan to harvest frost-sensitive vegetables or provide heavy protection (such as row covers) before this date to avoid crop loss.

Growing Season Length in Bismarck, ND

Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Bismarck is approximately 128 days. This duration determines which vegetable varieties have enough time to reach maturity before the winter cold sets in. Short-season varieties are recommended for crops that require a longer warm period.

Please note: These dates are climatological averages. Actual weather conditions vary by year. Always check the local 10-day forecast before planting.

Bismarck, ND Planting Calendar

This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.

Legend: I = Start seed indoors S = Direct sow T = Transplant H = Harvest
Generating calendar...

Bismarck, ND Monthly Planting Recommendations

March

In March, recommended activities include starting Impatiens seeds indoors (from March 11th to March 25th), starting Celery seeds indoors (from March 11th to March 25th), and starting Leek seeds indoors (from March 11th to March 25th).

April

In April, recommended activities include starting Pumpkin seeds indoors (from April 29th to May 6th), direct sowing Mustard (from April 22nd to May 6th), and starting Marigold seeds indoors (from April 8th to April 22nd).

May

In May, recommended activities include direct sowing Moss Rose (from May 27th to June 10th), direct sowing Beet (from May 6th to May 20th), and direct sowing Butternut Squash (from May 27th to June 10th).

June

In June, recommended activities include direct sowing Watermelon (from June 3rd to June 17th), direct sowing Sesame (from June 3rd to June 17th), and direct sowing Jute (from June 3rd to June 17th).