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Can You Grow Cherry in Montana?

US · USDA Zone 4b · zones 3a, 3b, 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b

Grows well here

Cherries grow well here with enough winter chill and full sun — tart varieties are hardier and easier.

Plant zones

4a–9a

Montana last frost

mid-April

Montana first frost

mid-October

Days to harvest

3–7 years

About Cherry

Cherry trees — sweet or tart — are a classic home orchard choice, but they need cross-pollination and are magnets for birds, so be ready to net the crop.

Plant two compatible varieties for pollination (unless tart/self-fertile). Site in full sun with good air flow. Net ripening fruit against birds. Trees bear in 3-6 years.

Full cherry growing guide →

Gardening in Montana

Montana has a semi-arid continental climate with cold winters and warm summers. Most of the state is Zone 4-5; protected valleys are Zone 5-6. Short but intense growing seasons.

See what grows well in Montana →

Frequently asked questions

Can you grow Cherry in Montana?

Cherries grow well here with enough winter chill and full sun — tart varieties are hardier and easier.

What zone is Montana?

Montana spans USDA Zone 4b (3a, 3b, 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b).

When do you plant Cherries in Montana?

See the planting guide for Cherry — timing depends on your exact frost date.