Maryland packs a surprising range of growing conditions into a small state. The Eastern Shore and Chesapeake Bay lowlands are mild and moderate, while western Maryland's Appalachian highlands have shorter, cooler growing seasons.
The Baltimore-DC corridor offers a moderate growing season ideal for a wide range of vegetables. Maryland's humid summers can be challenging, but the long frost-free period means gardeners have plenty of time for both spring and fall harvests.
The last frost date is the typical date in spring when your area has its final frost. After this date, it's generally safe to plant warm-season crops outdoors.
Start tomato seeds indoors about 6–8 weeks before your last frost date. In the Baltimore area, that's typically late February to early March.
Yes — cool-season crops like lettuce, peas, spinach, and broccoli can handle light frost and should be planted 4–6 weeks before your last frost date.
Western Maryland's mountains are significantly colder and higher than the coastal plain and Eastern Shore. Frost dates can differ by 3-4 weeks across the state.
Maryland doesn't have frost-free areas, but the lower Eastern Shore and southern coastal areas have mild winters. Enter your zip code for personalized frost dates.
You enter your zip code, and we look up your local frost dates. Then based on the crops you pick, we calculate when to start seeds, transplant, and harvest — personalized to your location.