Question 1

When should I start seeds indoors?

Accepted Answer

Most seeds should be started indoors 6 to 8 weeks before your last frost date. Tomatoes, peppers, and eggplant benefit from an early start (8 to 10 weeks before last frost), while cucumbers and squash only need 3 to 4 weeks. Check the indoor start dates in our calculator above for timing specific to your ZIP code and frost dates.

Question 2

What is a USDA hardiness zone?

Accepted Answer

A USDA hardiness zone is a geographic area defined by its average annual minimum winter temperature. The zones range from 1 (coldest, -60F) to 13 (warmest, 60-70F). Your zone determines which perennial plants survive winter in your area and helps estimate frost dates. Enter your ZIP code in our calculator to find your exact zone, frost dates, and growing season length.

Question 3

What happens if I plant too early?

Accepted Answer

Planting warm-season crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) before the last frost can stunt or kill them. Cold soil slows root development even if the air feels warm. Seeds planted in cold soil may rot before germinating. If you have already planted and frost is forecast, cover plants with row cover, cloches, or even buckets overnight to protect them.

Question 4

Can I plant anything before the last frost date?

Accepted Answer

Yes, many cool-season crops thrive in cold weather and can be planted 2 to 4 weeks before your last frost. These include lettuce, spinach, kale, peas, radishes, carrots, beets, and broccoli. Some, like garlic and onion sets, are even planted in fall for a spring harvest. Our calculator flags which vegetables can go out early for your specific zone.

Question 5

What is succession planting?

Accepted Answer

Succession planting means sowing the same crop in staggered intervals (usually every 2 to 3 weeks) to extend your harvest window. Instead of harvesting all your lettuce at once, for example, you plant a new batch every two weeks for a continuous supply. It works especially well for fast-maturing crops like lettuce, radishes, beans, and cilantro.

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