When to Plant Peppers in Pennsylvania
From sweet bells to fiery habaneros, peppers love heat and reward patience with prolific harvests.
The Short Answer
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 |
Peppers Planting Schedule for Pennsylvania
Northern Pennsylvania (Zones 5a, 5b, 6a)
Average last frost: May 5 - May 20 · Average first frost: Sep 20 - Oct 5
Central Pennsylvania (Zones 5b, 6a, 6b)
Average last frost: Apr 25 - May 10 · Average first frost: Oct 1 - Oct 15
Philadelphia Region (Zones 7a, 7b)
Average last frost: Apr 5 - Apr 20 · Average first frost: Oct 15 - Nov 5
Growing Peppers in Pennsylvania
State-Specific Growing Tips
Start pepper seeds indoors by late February to early March — an 8-10 week indoor growing period is ideal for Pennsylvania's compressed season. In the Philadelphia region (Zone 7a), transplant from mid to late May once nighttime temps are reliably above 55°F. Central PA (Zone 6a-6b) should wait until late May. Northern PA and the Poconos (Zone 5b) may need to wait until early June. Black plastic mulch is strongly recommended throughout most of the state — it raises soil temperature significantly and extends the effective growing season. Penn State Extension suggests container growing for superhot varieties that need the longest possible season.
Recommended Varieties for Pennsylvania
For reliable bell peppers across most of Pennsylvania, choose Ace (early, 60 days), Red Knight, or King Arthur. Carmen Italian sweet pepper performs exceptionally well in PA conditions. For hot peppers, Jalapeño Early, Hungarian Wax, and Cherry Bomb are proven producers. Southeastern Pennsylvania's longer season can accommodate longer-maturing varieties including Poblano and even some Habanero types if started early enough.
Common Challenges in Pennsylvania
Cool nights in May and early June cause blossom drop — the most common pepper complaint from Pennsylvania gardeners. Row covers or cloches provide the few extra degrees needed. Phytophthora blight can be devastating in poorly drained soils during wet summers. European corn borer larvae bore into pepper fruits, particularly in agricultural areas. Spotted lanternfly doesn't directly attack peppers but creates sticky honeydew on nearby plants that can harbor sooty mold.
Growing Tips
Start seeds early — peppers are slow to germinate. Wait until nights are consistently above 55°F before transplanting.
Companion Planting
Plant peppers alongside these companions for better growth:
Keep peppers away from:
The Bottom Line
Last reviewed: March 29, 2026