9 Vegetables That Will Grow Well in Montana

When the last pandemic hit and grocery store shelves around Montana weren't stocked the way they normally are, my wife suggested that maybe we look at starting our own garden. This would make us a bit more self-sufficient. Of course, I have no idea how to start a garden. My house, normally, is a place where plants go to die.

Starting a garden can be a big task and can be intimidating. It helps to have information about what to plant and what will thrive in a Montana garden. The "hardiness zones" for planting a garden in Montana have changed, according to the Farmer's Almanac.

Read More: Montana, This Is What Plant Hardiness Zones Look Like Now

Because of Montana's climate there are a few plants that thrive and can help make a successful garden. According to Montana State University in Bozeman, here are some of the top foods that can grow in Montana.

Tomatoes- Tomatoes are a staple that can be used in so many different foods and they are one of the easiest foods to grow in Montana.

Zucchini- Many of my neighbors grow zucchini and often give my family some.

Winter Squash- Even though squash is a hearty food that grows well in Montana, this is one that I won't be planting anytime soon. There is a long story behind this one, that maybe I will tell one day.

Garlic- One of the best smells of all time is the smell of cooking garlic.

Beets- There won't be a 60 acre beet farm that also includes a bed and breakfast in my future anytime soon. That would be an Office television show reference.

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Cauliflower- Cauliflower has become more and more versatile. You can make pizza crusts out of it, for those that don't want gluten. I have had a pretty tasty "Buffalo Cauliflower" lately that didn't taste like cauliflower at all.

Broccoli- I don't mind broccoli, but I can't think about it without thinking about Dana Carvey. He also was born in Montana.

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Cabbage- Montana is known for it's St. Patrick's Day celebrations and at least once a year you can have cabbage that you grew yourself.

Carrots- Out of all of the vegetables carrots are by far my favorite. This may be something I would consider growing myself.

As the Montana ground thaws out, this may be the year we finally start that vegetable garden we talked about years ago. Then again, the weather is looking good for a round of golf. Maybe next year.