Mississippi Planting Calendar
Frost dates, growing zones, and planting dates for Mississippi gardeners.
Zone 7b
Zone 8a
Zone 8b
Zone 9a
The Short Answer
Mississippi spans USDA zones 7b through 9a, which means planting dates vary significantly across the state. Northern Mississippi has an average last frost around Mar 15 - Apr 1, while Southern Mississippi sees its last frost around Feb 15 - Mar 5. Use our homepage tool with your zip code for dates specific to your exact location.
Mississippi Frost Dates by Region
Long growing season. Hot, humid summers. Mild winters. Two-season gardening possible.
| Region | Zones | Last Frost (Spring) | First Frost (Fall) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Northern Mississippi | 7b, 8a | Mar 15 - Apr 1 | Nov 1 - Nov 15 |
| Central Mississippi | 8a, 8b | Mar 1 - Mar 15 | Nov 10 - Nov 25 |
| Southern Mississippi | 8b, 9a | Feb 15 - Mar 5 | Nov 15 - Dec 5 |
Soil & Growing Conditions
Rich delta soils in west. Heavy clay in many areas. Sandy in pine belt. Acidic throughout.
What to Plant in Mississippi
Mississippi's long season gives you two planting windows and room for crops that colder states can't grow. The key is timing around your summer heat peak:
Heat Lovers (Mississippi's Advantage)
Spring & Fall Crops
TomatoesCucumbersBeans (Green/Snap)Squash (Summer)Corn (Sweet)BasilGarlicLettuceBroccoliCarrotsKalePeas
Flowers & Perennials
Browse all 100 plants — or enter your zip code for personalized planting dates.
Neighboring States
Gardeners near state borders may find useful information in neighboring state guides:
Alabama
Alaska
Arizona
Arkansas
California
Colorado
Connecticut
Delaware
Florida
Georgia
Hawaii
Idaho
Illinois
Indiana
Iowa
Kansas
Kentucky
Louisiana
Maine
Maryland
Massachusetts
Michigan
Minnesota
Missouri
Montana
Nebraska
Nevada
New Hampshire
New Jersey
New Mexico
New York
North Carolina
North Dakota
Ohio
Oklahoma
Oregon
Pennsylvania
Rhode Island
South Carolina
South Dakota
Tennessee
Texas
Utah
Vermont
Virginia
Washington
West Virginia
Wisconsin
Wyoming
Last reviewed: March 29, 2026