Root Vegetable

When to Plant Potatoes in Wyoming

Incredibly satisfying to grow. There's nothing quite like digging up your own potatoes — it's like buried treasure.

The Short Answer

In Wyoming, soil conditions are an important factor for potatoes. Alkaline, thin soils. Dry climate means little organic matter naturally. Wind erosion a significant challenge. Heavy amendment needed. Direct sow 2 weeks before your last frost date.

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

Potatoes Planting Schedule for Wyoming

Eastern Wyoming (Zones 4a, 4b, 5a)

Average last frost: May 10 - May 30 · Average first frost: Sep 10 - Sep 25

Direct Sow
2 wks before frost

Western Wyoming (Zones 3a, 3b, 4a)

Average last frost: May 25 - Jun 15 · Average first frost: Aug 25 - Sep 15

Direct Sow
2 wks before frost

Southern Wyoming (Zones 4b, 5a, 5b)

Average last frost: May 15 - Jun 1 · Average first frost: Sep 5 - Sep 20

Direct Sow
2 wks before frost

Growing Potatoes in Wyoming

Potatoes in Wyoming's Climate

Your cold climate grows excellent potatoes. Plant seed potatoes when soil reaches 45°F — typically mid to late April. Sandy northern soils warm quickly and produce clean, well-shaped tubers. Michigan, Wisconsin, and Minnesota have been premier potato regions for over a century. The moderate summer temperatures allow slow, steady tuber development that builds starch and flavor.

Soil Considerations for Wyoming

Alkaline, thin soils. Dry climate means little organic matter naturally. Wind erosion a significant challenge. Heavy amendment needed. Loose, well-drained soil is especially important for potatoes since the edible portion grows underground. If your soil is heavy clay, consider raised beds.

Wyoming Climate & Growing Season

Short growing season. Very windy — wind protection essential for gardens. Low humidity. Cool nights even in summer at elevation.

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 potatoes — adjust your planting dates to match your specific region.

Growing Tips

Plant seed potatoes (not grocery store potatoes) 2-3 weeks before last frost. Hill soil around stems as they grow to increase yield.

Companion Planting

Plant potatoes alongside these companions for better growth:

Beans Corn Cabbage Marigolds

Keep potatoes away from:

Tomatoes Squash Sunflowers

The Bottom Line

Potatoes can be grown successfully across Wyoming, but your exact planting dates depend on which region you're in. Eastern Wyoming gardeners should plan around a May 10 - May 30 last frost, while those in Southern Wyoming can typically plant later. For exact dates based on your zip code, use our free planting date finder.

Related Guides

Potatoes Growing Guide National planting guide with all states Wyoming Planting Calendar All plants for Wyoming Potatoes in Alabama Alabama planting dates Potatoes in Alaska Alaska planting dates Potatoes in Arizona Arizona planting dates Potatoes in Arkansas Arkansas planting dates
Note: All dates are based on NOAA 30-year Climate Normals and represent historical averages, not predictions for any specific year. Always check your local weather forecast before planting frost-sensitive crops. Learn about our data sources.

Last reviewed: March 29, 2026

Ready to Start Planting?

Enter your zip code and pick your plant. We'll tell you exactly when to plant, start seeds, and harvest — based on where you live.

Find Your Planting Dates