Frost Dates for Ludington, MI 49431

Last spring frost May 14 · First fall frost October 8 · 147 frost-free days · USDA Zone 6b

Frost probability for 49431

Frost10%50%90%
Spring (last frost)May 29May 14April 28
Fall (first frost)September 18October 8October 22

Dates come from NOAA 1971–2000 freeze probabilities at the nearest reporting station (27.8 km away); the 50% date is the median year.

Month by month in Ludington

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 8). Transplant fall brassicas. Sow spinach, arugula, and radishes.
OctoberFirst frost around October 8. 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 147-day season

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the last frost date for Ludington, MI (ZIP 49431)?

The median last spring frost date for Ludington, MI (ZIP code 49431) 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 Ludington, MI?

The median first fall frost date for Ludington, MI is around October 8. 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 Ludington, MI?

The frost-free growing season in Ludington is about 147 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 Ludington, MI?

Based on frost date patterns, Ludington falls approximately in 6b. 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 Ludington, MI?

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

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