When to Plant Based on Climate
The USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map was updated in 2012 and shows more detail than the old map produced in the 1990s. Actually, you can even use the zip code search to find your Plant Hardiness Zone, which is also a nice added feature from the USDA.
The general planting recommendations by zone are pretty helpful at giving you an idea of what plants you should start when. I found these estimates from TheSpruce.com, but you could also document your Last and First Frost Dates recorded by your outdoor temperature sensors and average a few years to understand the best planting conditions in your back yard!
| Zone | Last Frost Date | First Frost Date |
| 1 | June 15 | July 15 |
| 2 | May 15 | Aug 15 |
| 3 | May 15 | Sept 15 |
| 4 | May 15 | Sept 15 |
| 5 | April 15 | Oct 15 |
| 6 | April 15 | Oct 15 |
| 7 | April 15 | Oct 15 |
| 8 | March 15 | Nov 15 |
| 9 | Feb 15 | Dec 15 |
| 10 | Jan 31 | Dec 15 |
TheSpruce.com recommends starting your seeds roughly 6 weeks before planting, usually in a greenhouse, garage, or in your warm house.
There are many websites that show you what to plant and when based on plant type. I love using garden.org when I’m planning my produce garden every year! It gives you a list of produce with growing dates, and includes info and tips on each plant. All you need to know about eggplant for example!
Good Luck this spring and happy gardening!
