Cool-Season Vegetable

When to Plant Peas in Rhode Island

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

The Short Answer

Peas are cold-tolerant and do well in Rhode Island's varied climate. You can direct sow 6 weeks before your last frost — that's as early as Apr 15 - May 5 in Rhode Island. Rhode Island gardeners can also plant a fall crop. Rocky, acidic New England soils. Sandy near coast. Glacial deposits throughout. Amendment needed...

Rhode Island Frost Dates

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

Region	Zones	Last Frost (Spring)	First Frost (Fall)
Rhode Island	6a, 6b, 7a	Apr 15 - May 5	Oct 5 - Oct 25

Peas Planting Schedule for Rhode Island

Rhode Island (Zones 6a, 6b, 7a)

Average last frost: Apr 15 - May 5 · Average first frost: Oct 5 - Oct 25

Direct Sow

6 wks before frost

Fall Planting

8 wks before first frost

Growing Peas in Rhode Island

Peas in Rhode Island's Climate

Peas are your first spring crop — direct sow 4-6 weeks before last frost. Production continues until temperatures consistently exceed 80°F, usually by late June. Fall peas from an August sowing produce well into October. Provide trellising for climbing varieties.

Soil Considerations for Rhode Island

Rocky, acidic New England soils. Sandy near coast. Glacial deposits throughout. Amendment needed for most vegetable gardening.

Rhode Island Climate & Growing Season

Maritime climate moderates temperatures. Four seasons. Moderate growing season. Ocean influence reduces frost risk near coast. Peas can handle frost well, which is an advantage in Rhode Island's climate. You can push planting dates earlier in spring and extend into fall.

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 across Rhode Island, but your exact planting dates depend on which region you're in. Rhode Island gardeners should plan around a Apr 15 - May 5 last frost, while those in Rhode Island can typically plant later. For exact dates based on your zip code, use our free planting date finder.

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