Horticulture in Teton County
Gardening and horticulture
UI Extension, Teton County offers a variety of resources and programs to help you better understand horticulture and gardening issues. The Idaho Master Gardener program trains citizens to share their gardening knowledge through community outreach. Contact the UI Extension, Teton County office at teton@uidaho.edu or 208-776-8235 for current class dates.
Gardening
Gardening in Teton County can be rewarding, but there can be some challenges, with our short, high-elevation climate. The USDA hardiness zones for Teton County range from Zone 5a in the valley to 3a in higher elevations. The average frost-free period ranges from mid-June to early September though it is not uncommon to have a frost in the middle of the summer. The short growing season and cool nights can hinder plant growth, but with the proper plant selection, gardening techniques and season extension, gardens can flourish.
We offer gardening workshops and classes throughout the year, typically in the winter and spring. Contact the UI Extension, Teton County office for program information.
To find publications about gardening, short-season, high-altitude gardening in Idaho, visit the publications website.
High altitude gardening
Growing plants and vegetables at high altitudes requires an understanding of what is possible and what is practical. If you are new to high altitude gardening, we invite you first to read Introduction to short-season gardening in Idaho, BUL 857.
Related resources
- Managing soils in short-season, high-altitude zones, BUL 858
- Gardening strategies for short-season, high-altitude zones, BUL 859
- Extending the gardening season, 2752 (University of Maine Extension)
- Composting at home, CIS 1066
- Selecting, planting and caring for trees, shrubs and vines, BUL 860
- Herbaceous ornamentals: annuals, perennials and ornamental grasses, BUL 861
- Landscaping with native plants, BUL 862
- Choosing and growing adapted vegetable varieties, BUL 863
- Growing tomatoes in cool, short-season locations, BUL 864
- Growing tree fruits in short-season gardens, BUL 867
- Growing small-fruit crops in short-season gardens, BUL 868
- Short-season vegetable gardening, PNW 497
- Hardy roses for harsh climates, BUL 874
- Lawn care in short-season, high-altitude zones, BUL 875
Master Gardener program
Each year, hundreds of master gardeners share their gardening knowledge as they serve their communities and the environment. UI Extension, Teton County offers the Idaho Master Gardener course every other year.
What master gardeners do
- Answer horticulture questions (by telephone and in person at the UI Extension office)
- Promote environmental responsibility
- Bring the joy of gardening to all ages
- Teach classes for large groups: civic organizations, church groups, garden clubs, schools and others
Becoming an Idaho Master Gardener
If you are interested in being certified as an Idaho Master Gardener, contact the UI Extension, Teton County office at teton@uidaho.edu for an application.
Volunteers are required to complete 12-15 three-hour classes on a variety of gardening topics, taught by UI Extension specialists and educators. Participants must also complete 30 hours of volunteer service in order to become a certified Idaho Master Gardener.
Certified master gardeners must recertify annually by completing a combined total of 15 hours volunteer time and classroom instruction. Master gardeners located in Teton County are encouraged to help us with our UI Extension and 4-H Giving Garden.