When to Plant in New York

New York's growing season varies significantly — New York City and Long Island enjoy a relatively long season, while upstate areas and the Adirondacks can see frost into late May.

Most New York gardeners start seeds indoors in March to get a head start. Tomatoes, peppers, and other warm-season crops need that indoor head start to produce before fall frost arrives.

Common Mistakes

Rushing to plant warm-season crops before Memorial Day in upstate areas — late frosts are common.
Not starting seeds indoors early enough — the growing season is shorter than you think.
Forgetting about fall gardening — September plantings of greens and root vegetables extend the harvest.
Ignoring soil preparation — New York's clay-heavy soils benefit enormously from compost and raised beds.

FAQ

What is the last frost date?

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.

When should I start tomatoes indoors in New York?

Start tomato seeds indoors about 6–8 weeks before your last frost date. For most of New York, that means starting seeds in mid-March to early April.

Can I plant before the last frost?

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.

Why does timing vary so much within New York?

New York City is in a much milder zone than the Adirondacks or western NY. Elevation and proximity to the ocean create very different microclimates across the state.

What if I live in a frost-free area?

New York doesn't have truly frost-free areas, but NYC and Long Island have milder winters and longer growing seasons than upstate. Enter your zip code for exact timing.

How does Plan My Garden create my schedule?

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.