Frost Dates for Cortland, NY 13045

Last spring frost May 14 · First fall frost October 3 · 142 frost-free days · USDA Zone 5b

Frost probability for 13045

Frost10%50%90%
Spring (last frost)May 28May 14May 1
Fall (first frost)September 18October 3October 17

Dates come from NOAA 1971–2000 freeze probabilities at the nearest reporting station (26.2 km away); the 50% date is the median year.

Month by month in Cortland

MonthWhat to do
JanuaryPlan your garden layout and order seeds. Research varieties suited to your frost dates.
FebruaryStart the slowest-growing crops indoors: onions, leeks, and celery (10–12 weeks before last frost).
MarchStart peppers and eggplant indoors 8–10 weeks before your last frost (around May 14). Start tomatoes about two weeks later, 6–8 weeks before last frost.
AprilStart herbs, basil, and squash indoors (4–6 weeks before frost). Direct sow peas, spinach, and lettuce if soil is workable.
MayLast frost around May 14. Transplant cold-hardy crops (broccoli, kale, cabbage). Harden off tomato and pepper seedlings.
JuneFrost has passed. Transplant tomatoes, peppers, and basil outdoors. Direct sow beans, cucumbers, squash, and zucchini.
JulySuccession plant lettuce and greens. Keep beds weeded and watered consistently.
AugustHarvest regularly to encourage production. Monitor for pests and disease.
SeptemberFirst fall frost approaching (around October 3). Transplant fall brassicas. Sow spinach, arugula, and radishes.
OctoberFirst frost around October 3. Harvest tomatoes and peppers before frost. Cover cold-hardy crops with row covers to extend the season.
NovemberHarvest remaining cold-hardy crops: kale, carrots, and beets. Plant garlic bulbs for next year.
DecemberClean up spent plants. Add compost to beds. Rest, review, and plan next year's garden.

What grows in a 142-day season

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the last frost date for Cortland, NY (ZIP 13045)?

The median last spring frost date for Cortland, NY (ZIP code 13045) is around May 14. This is the 50th-percentile date — meaning half of all years see frost end before this date. Use the 10% and 90% dates to understand the full range of risk in your area.

What is the first fall frost date in Cortland, NY?

The median first fall frost date for Cortland, NY is around October 3. Plan to harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops like tomatoes and peppers at least a week before this date to avoid losses.

How long is the growing season in Cortland, NY?

The frost-free growing season in Cortland is about 142 days. This window — from your last spring frost to your first fall frost — is when warm-season vegetables thrive. Cold-hardy crops like kale, spinach, and peas can extend your season by weeks on either side.

What USDA hardiness zone is Cortland, NY?

Based on frost date patterns, Cortland falls approximately in 5b. USDA hardiness zones are determined by average annual minimum winter temperatures and guide both plant selection and planting timing for your location.

When should I start tomatoes indoors in Cortland, NY?

Start tomato seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before your last frost date (around May 14). For Cortland, that's roughly March 19 to April 2. Transplant outdoors 1–2 weeks after your last frost.

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