How do I find my last frost date?

The USDA and local extension offices publish average last frost dates by zip code. Search "[your city] average last frost date" or use the Old Farmer's Almanac frost date lookup. Dates are averages — actual frost can vary by a week or two in either direction.

What does "start indoors" mean?

Starting seeds indoors means sowing them in small containers under grow lights (or a sunny window) inside your home, weeks before outdoor conditions are safe. This gives slow-growing crops like tomatoes, peppers, and eggplant a head start.

What is "direct sow"?

Direct sowing means planting seeds directly into your outdoor garden bed. Crops like beans, carrots, and radishes grow so quickly — or dislike being transplanted — that direct sowing outdoors is preferred.

Can I plant earlier than the schedule shows?

For frost-tolerant crops (kale, peas, spinach) you can plant a few weeks before the last frost. For tender crops (tomatoes, cucumbers, squash) wait until after the last frost date or use row covers to protect from late cold snaps.

Why are some crops not shown for my region?

If your growing season is very short (under 90 days), some long-season crops like watermelon may not have a viable direct-sow window. The tool will still show an indoor-start option if the season allows transplanting.

Planting Calendar

Name: Planting Calendar
Availability: InStock
Author: Nham Vu

Enter your last and first frost dates to get a week-by-week planting schedule for 20 common vegetables.

Your Frost Dates

Last Spring Frost Date

The last date frost is likely in spring (e.g. Apr 15)

First Fall Frost Date

The first date frost typically returns in fall (e.g. Oct 15)

Legend

Start seeds indoors

Transplant outdoors

Direct sow outdoors

Harvest window

Enter your frost dates on the left to generate your planting schedule.

Vegetable Planting Schedule

Crop

Summary