Frost Dates for Hickory, NC 28601

Last spring frost April 11 · First fall frost October 26 · 198 frost-free days · USDA Zone 8a

Frost probability for 28601

Frost10%50%90%
Spring (last frost)April 27April 11March 27
Fall (first frost)October 9October 26November 11

Dates come from NOAA 1971–2000 freeze probabilities at the nearest reporting station (34.7 km away); the 50% date is the median year.

Frost dates by ZIP code in Hickory, NC

ZIPLast spring frost (50%)First fall frost (50%)Zone
28601April 11October 268a
28602April 11October 268a

Month by month in Hickory

MonthWhat to do
JanuaryPlan your garden layout and order seeds. Research varieties suited to your frost dates.
FebruaryStart peppers and eggplant indoors 8–10 weeks before your last frost (around April 11). Start tomatoes about two weeks later, 6–8 weeks before last frost.
MarchStart herbs, basil, and squash indoors (4–6 weeks before frost). Direct sow peas, spinach, and lettuce if soil is workable.
AprilLast frost around April 11. Transplant cold-hardy crops (broccoli, kale, cabbage). Harden off tomato and pepper seedlings.
MayFrost has passed. Transplant tomatoes, peppers, and basil outdoors. Direct sow beans, cucumbers, squash, and zucchini.
JuneSuccession plant lettuce and greens. Keep beds weeded and watered consistently.
JulyHarvest regularly to encourage production. Monitor for pests and disease.
AugustMidsummer: harvest beans, zucchini, cucumbers. Start brassica seeds indoors for fall.
SeptemberFirst fall frost approaching (around October 26). Transplant fall brassicas. Sow spinach, arugula, and radishes.
OctoberFirst frost around October 26. 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 198-day season

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the last frost date for Hickory, NC (ZIP 28601)?

The median last spring frost date for Hickory, NC (ZIP code 28601) is around April 11. 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 Hickory, NC?

The median first fall frost date for Hickory, NC is around October 26. 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 Hickory, NC?

The frost-free growing season in Hickory is about 198 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 Hickory, NC?

Based on frost date patterns, Hickory falls approximately in 8a. 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 Hickory, NC?

Start tomato seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before your last frost date (around April 11). For Hickory, that's roughly February 15 to February 29. Transplant outdoors 1–2 weeks after your last frost.

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