Planting calendar
Zone 5 planting calendar
In USDA zone 5, the average last spring frost is around April 30 and the first fall frost around October 7. Here's when to start seeds indoors and when to sow or transplant each crop outside.
| Crop | Start seeds indoors | Sow / transplant outside |
|---|---|---|
| Tomatoes | March 19 | May 7 |
| Peppers | March 5 | May 14 |
| Eggplant | March 5 | May 14 |
| Broccoli | March 26 | April 16 |
| Cabbage | March 26 | April 16 |
| Bush beans | — | May 7 |
| Sweet corn | — | May 7 |
| Cucumber | — | May 7 |
| Squash & zucchini | — | May 7 |
| Carrots | — | April 9 |
| Lettuce | — | April 2 |
| Peas | — | March 19 |
| Radishes | — | April 2 |
| Spinach | — | March 19 |
| Kale | — | April 2 |
Anchored to an approximate zone 5 last frost (April 30). A guide — confirm locally.
FAQ
When is the last frost in zone 5?
Zone 5 has an approximate average last spring frost around April 30 and first fall frost around October 7. Your exact dates vary locally — use these as the anchor for planting.
What can I plant in zone 5 in spring?
Cool crops (peas, lettuce, spinach, kale, radishes, carrots) go in weeks before the last frost; warm crops (tomatoes, peppers, beans, squash, corn, cucumber) after it. The table gives the date for each.
A planting guide, not a guarantee. Zone 5 dates anchor to an approximate average last frost and will shift with your microclimate and the season. Check the local forecast before planting tender crops.