Root Vegetable

When to Plant Potatoes in Pennsylvania

Incredibly satisfying to grow. There's nothing quite like digging up your own potatoes — it's like buried treasure.

The Short Answer

Pennsylvania has been growing potatoes since the Colonial era, and the state's diverse soils support the crop well. The central valleys' deep loams produce excellent potatoes, and the crop has been a farm market staple for centuries.

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

Potatoes 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
2 wks before frost

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

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

Direct Sow
2 wks before frost

Philadelphia Region (Zones 7a, 7b)

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

Direct Sow
2 wks before frost

Growing Potatoes in Pennsylvania

State-Specific Growing Tips

Plant from mid-April (southeast PA) to early May (central and northern PA) when soil reaches 45°F. Pennsylvania's limestone-derived valley soils may be too alkaline for potatoes — test pH and acidify with sulfur to 5.0-5.5. Heavier soils need hilling with compost for better tuber development. Certified seed potatoes from a reputable source. Harvest after foliage dies back, typically July to August.

Recommended Varieties for Pennsylvania

Kennebec for baking (a Pennsylvania and New England classic). Yukon Gold for all-purpose. Katahdin for storage. Red Pontiac for new potatoes. Penn State Extension provides variety recommendations.

Common Challenges in Pennsylvania

Late blight — Pennsylvania's proximity to major commercial growing regions means the disease spreads quickly. Colorado potato beetle is the primary insect pest. Scab in alkaline soils. Wireworms in some areas.

Growing Tips

Plant seed potatoes (not grocery store potatoes) 2-3 weeks before last frost. Hill soil around stems as they grow to increase yield.

Companion Planting

Plant potatoes alongside these companions for better growth:

Beans Corn Cabbage Marigolds

Keep potatoes away from:

Tomatoes Squash Sunflowers

The Bottom Line

Potatoes 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

Potatoes Growing Guide National planting guide with all states Pennsylvania Planting Calendar All plants for Pennsylvania Potatoes in Alabama Alabama planting dates Potatoes in Alaska Alaska planting dates Potatoes in Arizona Arizona planting dates Potatoes 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

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