Seasonal Gardening: What to Plant Each Month in Idaho
Gardening in Idaho is a wonderful adventure, but it definitely comes with its own unique rhythm. Thanks to Idaho's diverse climates — from snowy winters to warm, sunny summers — knowing what to plant and when can make all the difference in growing a successful garden. Whether you're brand new to gardening or just looking to plan smarter this year, here’s a simple month-by-month guide for seasonal gardening in Idaho, starting now.
May – Time to Shine
May is an exciting month for Idaho gardeners! As the risk of frost fades (especially mid to late May), it’s time to plant warm-season crops. Get your tomatoes, peppers, corn, green beans, squash, and cucumbers in the ground. It's also a great time to plant colorful annuals like marigolds and zinnias to brighten up your space.
Tip: Pay attention to the weather — a sudden cold snap can still happen early in May in some areas.
June – Warm Weather Lovers
By June, your garden should be thriving! Plant heat-loving crops like melons, pumpkins, and sweet potatoes if you haven’t already. Continue planting fast-growing veggies like radishes and lettuce for a staggered harvest. Make sure everything gets consistent watering as the temperatures climb.
Tip: Mulching now can help lock in moisture and keep weeds under control.
July – Maintenance and Mid-Season Planting
July is all about garden maintenance. Weed regularly, check for pests, and harvest anything that’s ready. You can also plant a second round of carrots, beets, and leafy greens for a later harvest. Don't forget to keep watering — summer in Idaho can be hot and dry!
Tip: Water early in the morning or late in the evening to reduce evaporation.
August – Prepare for Fall Gardening
August is still warm, but it’s the perfect time to start thinking about your fall garden. Begin planting cool-season crops like spinach, kale, and peas. Keep your summer crops healthy and thriving with regular harvesting and deep watering.
Tip: Consider using shade cloth for delicate crops during Idaho’s hottest days.
September – Harvest Time
September is a busy and rewarding month! You’ll be harvesting tomatoes, peppers, pumpkins, and melons. Keep an eye on cooler nights — cover tender plants if needed. This is also a great time to start cleaning up parts of your garden that are winding down.
Tip: Save seeds from your best plants for next season!
October – Plant Garlic and Spring Bulbs
October is perfect for planting garlic, which will overwinter and be ready for harvest next summer. It's also the ideal time to plant spring-flowering bulbs like tulips, daffodils, and crocuses. Finish harvesting any late crops and prepare your garden beds for winter.
Tip: Add a thick layer of mulch to your garden beds to protect your soil.
November – Garden Cleanup
November is about tidying up. Clear out any remaining plant debris to prevent pests and disease from overwintering. Store tools properly and reflect on what worked well this year (and what you might want to change next season).
Tip: Compost your healthy plant leftovers to create nutrient-rich soil for next spring!
December – Rest and Dream
Take a breather! December is a quiet month for gardeners. Enjoy your harvest, read up on new gardening techniques, and start dreaming about your plans for next year. You earned it!
Final Thoughts
Gardening in Idaho means embracing the seasons and working with nature’s timing. With a little planning and the right timing, you can enjoy fresh flowers, fruits, and vegetables nearly all year round. Whether you’re growing a few pots on your patio or a big backyard garden, there’s always something to look forward to each month.
Happy gardening! 🌻
