Planting Calendar & Frost Date Finder
Find the best planting dates for 20+ vegetables and herbs based on your USDA hardiness zone or last frost date. See when to start seeds indoors, transplant and direct sow.
How the Planting Calendar Works
This planting calendar uses your USDA hardiness zone or last frost date to calculate precise planting windows for over 20 common vegetables, herbs and fruits. Each crop has specific timing requirements relative to your last spring frost — some need to start indoors weeks before frost ends, while others go directly into the ground after frost danger passes. The calendar shows three key dates for each crop: when to start seeds indoors, when to transplant seedlings outside, and when to direct sow seeds into the garden. All calculations happen in your browser with no data sent anywhere.
Understanding USDA Hardiness Zones and Frost Dates
USDA hardiness zones range from 1 (coldest) to 13 (warmest) and tell you the average minimum winter temperature for your area. Your zone determines your approximate last spring frost date — the date after which frost is unlikely. Zone 3 gardens typically see their last frost around May 15, while Zone 10 may be frost-free by January 31. Knowing your frost date is the single most important piece of information for planning a successful garden. If you are unsure of your zone, check the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map or ask your local garden center or cooperative extension office.
When to Start Seeds Indoors vs Direct Sow
Some crops like tomatoes, peppers and eggplant need a long growing season and must be started indoors 6-10 weeks before the last frost date. Others like beans, corn and radishes prefer to be sown directly into the garden soil. Cool-season crops such as lettuce, spinach, peas and kale can be planted outdoors 4-8 weeks before your last frost because they tolerate light freezes. Warm-season crops like cucumbers, squash and watermelon should wait until 1-2 weeks after the last frost when soil temperatures reach at least 60 degrees Fahrenheit.
Tips for a Successful Planting Season
Start by choosing crops suited to your zone and available growing days. Use seed-starting trays with grow lights for indoor starts and harden off seedlings for 7-10 days before transplanting outside. Succession plant quick crops like lettuce and radishes every 2-3 weeks for continuous harvests throughout the season. Consider using row covers or cold frames to extend your season by 2-4 weeks on either end. Keep a garden journal to track what you planted, when, and how it performed — this data is invaluable for improving yields next year.