Lawn Care Guide for McCone County
McCone County, Montana
Data Story
About Lawn Care in McCone County, Montana
Average Ease in a Harsh State
McCone County's lawn score of 31.8 is very close to the Montana state average of 33.4. While it beats some neighbors, it remains much tougher than the national median score of 50.0.
The Challenge of Summer Heat
The county experiences 31 extreme heat days, which is much higher than the state average of 22. This intense heat combined with only 13.7 inches of rain makes summer dormancy almost inevitable without irrigation.
Handling High pH Soils
The soil pH of 7.55 is quite alkaline, which may require the addition of elemental sulfur to help grass thrive. A balanced mix of 24.5% clay and 35.4% sand provides a decent foundation if properly aerated.
Drought-Ready Lawn Habits
The county experienced 39 weeks of drought last year, and 100% of the area is currently abnormally dry. Focus on deep-root watering techniques to help your turf survive the 31 annual days of extreme heat.
Maximize the Growing Season
Buffalo grass is a fantastic low-water choice for this 4a zone and its high heat days. With 2400 growing degree days, grass can establish quickly if seeded after the May 17 frost.
Lawn Difficulty Score
Recommended Grasses
Blue Grama
Bouteloua gracilis
Tall Fescue
Festuca arundinacea
Buffalograss
Bouteloua dactyloides
Climate Snapshot
Annual Precip
13.7"
Growing Degree Days
2,400.05
Base 50F
Last Spring Frost
05/17
First Fall Frost
09/22
Days Above 95F
31
Hardiness Zone
4a
Seeding Calendar — Zone 4A
Seasonal Lawn Care Checklist
Spring
- Apply pre-emergent herbicide when soil reaches 55F
- Overseed bare spots once frost risk passes
- Start irrigation if rainfall is below 1 inch/week
- Soil test every 2-3 years — adjust lime or sulfur as needed
Summer
- Mow at recommended height weekly
- Water deeply 1-2 times per week (1 inch total)
- Avoid fertilizing cool-season grasses in peak heat
- Scout for grubs and treat if >10 per sq ft
Fall
- Core aerate compacted areas
- Apply fall fertilizer (highest N application for cool-season)
- Continue mowing until growth stops
- Rake or mulch leaves to prevent smothering
Winter
- Avoid walking on frozen turf
- Service mower and sharpen blades
- Plan spring soil amendments based on fall test
- Keep lawn clear of debris
Watering Deficit Calculator
Monthly Deficit
2.6"
inches of water
Monthly Water
8,151
gallons
Estimated Monthly Cost
$65.21
at $0.008/gallon average
Estimates based on 14" annual precipitation and estimated evapotranspiration. Actual costs vary by local water rates.
Common Lawn Problems in McCone County
Drought Stress
With only 14 inches of annual rainfall, lawns in McCone County face significant drought stress. Consider drought-tolerant grass species and deep, infrequent watering.
Persistent Drought Conditions
McCone County experienced drought conditions for 39 of the past 52 weeks. Prioritize water-efficient grasses and consider reducing lawn area.
Learn more about regional lawn challenges at The Lawn Report.
Want detailed soil composition, drainage classes, and soil series data? View soil details on SoilByCounty.com
Data sourced from USDA SSURGO, NOAA Climate Normals (1991-2020), USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map, and US Drought Monitor. Lawn difficulty scores and grass recommendations are estimates for informational purposes only.
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