When to Plant Black-Eyed Susans in Wyoming
Cheerful golden blooms that attract butterflies and tolerate drought. A backbone of the low-maintenance perennial garden.
The Short Answer
Wyoming Frost Dates
Your planting dates depend on which part of Wyoming you're in. Here are the frost date ranges by region:
| Region | Zones | Last Frost (Spring) | First Frost (Fall) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eastern Wyoming | 4a, 4b, 5a | May 10 - May 30 | Sep 10 - Sep 25 |
| Western Wyoming | 3a, 3b, 4a | May 25 - Jun 15 | Aug 25 - Sep 15 |
| Southern Wyoming | 4b, 5a, 5b | May 15 - Jun 1 | Sep 5 - Sep 20 |
Black-Eyed Susans Planting Schedule for Wyoming
Eastern Wyoming (Zones 4a, 4b, 5a)
Average last frost: May 10 - May 30 · Average first frost: Sep 10 - Sep 25
Western Wyoming (Zones 3a, 3b, 4a)
Average last frost: May 25 - Jun 15 · Average first frost: Aug 25 - Sep 15
Southern Wyoming (Zones 4b, 5a, 5b)
Average last frost: May 15 - Jun 1 · Average first frost: Sep 5 - Sep 20
Growing Black-Eyed Susans in Wyoming
Black-Eyed Susans in Wyoming's Climate
Black-eyed Susans are native wildflowers that thrive in cold-climate conditions. Plant divisions or nursery plants from spring through early fall. They handle poor soil, drought once established, and cold winters without complaint. Leave seed heads standing through winter for bird food and visual interest.
Soil Considerations for Wyoming
Alkaline, thin soils. Dry climate means little organic matter naturally. Wind erosion a significant challenge. Heavy amendment needed.
Wyoming Climate & Growing Season
Short growing season. Very windy — wind protection essential for gardens. Low humidity. Cool nights even in summer at elevation. Black-Eyed Susans can handle frost well, which is an advantage in Wyoming's climate. You can push planting dates earlier in spring and extend into fall.
Growing season length varies across Wyoming: Eastern Wyoming (4a, 4b, 5a) has a last frost around May 10 - May 30, while Southern Wyoming (4b, 5a, 5b) sees frost end around May 15 - Jun 1. This difference matters for black-eyed susans — but black-eyed susans handle frost well, so the timing difference is less critical.
Growing Tips
Leave seed heads standing through winter for birds and visual interest. Self-seeds freely — deadhead if you don't want more.
Companion Planting
Plant black-eyed susans alongside these companions for better growth:
The Bottom Line
Last reviewed: March 29, 2026