Guides / Getting started
Know your growing zone and frost dates
The two facts that decide when to plant.
Planting at the right time saves money on plants that would otherwise be lost to frost or heat. Two pieces of information matter most.
Your frost dates
Your average last spring frost and first fall frost tell you when tender plants like tomatoes can go out, and how long your season is. Your local Cooperative Extension office publishes them.
Your hardiness zone
The USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map shows your area's average coldest winter temperature. It matters most for perennials like herbs, fruit and asparagus.
Local wisdom
Frost dates are averages. Watch the forecast, and keep old sheets or buckets handy to cover plants on a cold night.
General educational information. Growing conditions vary; check with your local Cooperative Extension office. Nickel Harvest isn't paid by any seed company, garden brand or store.