Frost Dates for Houghton, MI 49931

Last spring frost June 13 · First fall frost September 6 · 85 frost-free days · USDA Zone 5b

Frost probability for 49931

Frost10%50%90%
Spring (last frost)July 1June 13May 16
Fall (first frost)August 17September 6October 3

Dates come from NOAA 1971–2000 freeze probabilities at the nearest reporting station (55.2 km away); the 50% date is the median year.

Month by month in Houghton

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).
MarchOrganize planting supplies and seed-starting mix. Check stored garden tools.
AprilStart peppers and eggplant indoors 8–10 weeks before your last frost (around June 13). Start tomatoes about two weeks later, 6–8 weeks before last frost.
MayStart herbs, basil, and squash indoors (4–6 weeks before frost). Direct sow peas, spinach, and lettuce if soil is workable.
JuneLast frost around June 13. Transplant cold-hardy crops (broccoli, kale, cabbage). Harden off tomato and pepper seedlings.
JulyFrost has passed. Transplant tomatoes, peppers, and basil outdoors. Direct sow beans, cucumbers, squash, and zucchini.
AugustFirst fall frost approaching (around September 6). Transplant fall brassicas. Sow spinach, arugula, and radishes.
SeptemberFirst frost around September 6. Harvest tomatoes and peppers before frost. Cover cold-hardy crops with row covers to extend the season.
OctoberHarvest remaining cold-hardy crops: kale, carrots, and beets. Plant garlic bulbs for next year.
NovemberClean up spent plants. Add compost to beds. Rest, review, and plan next year's garden.
DecemberClean up spent plants. Add compost to beds. Rest, review, and plan next year's garden.

What grows in a 85-day season

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the last frost date for Houghton, MI (ZIP 49931)?

The median last spring frost date for Houghton, MI (ZIP code 49931) is around June 13. 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 Houghton, MI?

The median first fall frost date for Houghton, MI is around September 6. 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 Houghton, MI?

The frost-free growing season in Houghton is about 85 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 Houghton, MI?

Based on frost date patterns, Houghton 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 Houghton, MI?

Start tomato seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before your last frost date (around June 13). For Houghton, that's roughly April 18 to May 2. Transplant outdoors 1–2 weeks after your last frost.

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