Cool-Season Vegetable

When to Plant Peas in Pennsylvania

One of the earliest crops you can plant. Kids love picking and eating them right off the vine.

The Short Answer

Peas are Pennsylvania's first spring crop — the state's cool springs are ideal for extended pea production, and the crop's frost tolerance means it goes in the ground 4-6 weeks before any warm-season planting. Pennsylvania's gardening heritage includes a strong pea tradition, and shelling peas on the porch is a nostalgic rite of spring.

Pennsylvania Frost Dates

Your planting dates depend on which part of Pennsylvania you're in. Here are the frost date ranges by region:

Region Zones Last Frost (Spring) First Frost (Fall)
Northern Pennsylvania 5a, 5b, 6a May 5 - May 20 Sep 20 - Oct 5
Central Pennsylvania 5b, 6a, 6b Apr 25 - May 10 Oct 1 - Oct 15
Philadelphia Region 7a, 7b Apr 5 - Apr 20 Oct 15 - Nov 5

Peas Planting Schedule for Pennsylvania

Northern Pennsylvania (Zones 5a, 5b, 6a)

Average last frost: May 5 - May 20 · Average first frost: Sep 20 - Oct 5

Direct Sow
6 wks before frost
Fall Planting
8 wks before first frost

Central Pennsylvania (Zones 5b, 6a, 6b)

Average last frost: Apr 25 - May 10 · Average first frost: Oct 1 - Oct 15

Direct Sow
6 wks before frost
Fall Planting
8 wks before first frost

Philadelphia Region (Zones 7a, 7b)

Average last frost: Apr 5 - Apr 20 · Average first frost: Oct 15 - Nov 5

Direct Sow
6 wks before frost
Fall Planting
8 wks before first frost

Growing Peas in Pennsylvania

State-Specific Growing Tips

Direct sow as soon as soil can be worked — as early as mid-March in southeast PA, early April in central and northern PA. Peas tolerate frost and even light snow without damage. Inoculate with Rhizobium. Pennsylvania's limestone valley soils are naturally well-suited to peas. Provide trellising for climbing varieties. Production continues through May or early June until temperatures consistently exceed 80°F. Fall peas from an August sowing are productive into October.

Recommended Varieties for Pennsylvania

Sugar Snap for the classic edible pod. Oregon Sugar Pod for snow peas. Lincoln and Green Arrow for shelling. Wando for heat tolerance to extend the spring season. Penn State Extension recommends early, cold-soil-tolerant varieties for maximum Pennsylvania production.

Common Challenges in Pennsylvania

Heat ends the season in June-July in southeastern PA. Powdery mildew in humid springs. Pea aphids. Rabbit damage. Root rot in waterlogged soils after spring rains.

Growing Tips

Direct sow as early as the soil can be worked. Inoculate with rhizobium for bigger harvests. Provide a trellis for climbing varieties.

Companion Planting

Plant peas alongside these companions for better growth:

Carrots Radishes Corn Cucumbers

Keep peas away from:

Onions Garlic

The Bottom Line

Peas can be grown successfully in Pennsylvania with proper attention to regional frost dates and local growing conditions. Timing varies across the state — Northern Pennsylvania gardeners work with a last frost around May 5 - May 20, while Philadelphia Region sees frost end around Apr 5 - Apr 20. Choose varieties suited to your region, amend your soil based on its specific needs, and monitor for the pests and diseases most common in your area. For exact dates based on your zip code, use our free planting date finder.

Related Guides

Peas Growing Guide National planting guide with all states Pennsylvania Planting Calendar All plants for Pennsylvania Peas in Alabama Alabama planting dates Peas in Alaska Alaska planting dates Peas in Arizona Arizona planting dates Peas in Arkansas Arkansas planting dates
Note: All dates are based on NOAA 30-year Climate Normals and represent historical averages, not predictions for any specific year. Always check your local weather forecast before planting frost-sensitive crops. Learn about our data sources.

Last reviewed: March 29, 2026

Ready to Start Planting?

Enter your zip code and pick your plant. We'll tell you exactly when to plant, start seeds, and harvest — based on where you live.

Find Your Planting Dates