Vermont Planting Calendar
Frost dates, growing zones, and planting dates for Vermont gardeners.
The Short Answer
Vermont Frost Dates by Region
Short growing season. Cold winters. Cool summers. Long summer days help compensate. Season extension techniques valuable.
| Region | Zones | Last Frost (Spring) | First Frost (Fall) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Northern Vermont | 3b, 4a | May 20 - Jun 5 | Sep 5 - Sep 20 |
| Central Vermont | 4a, 4b, 5a | May 10 - May 25 | Sep 15 - Oct 1 |
| Southern Vermont | 4b, 5a, 5b | May 5 - May 20 | Sep 20 - Oct 5 |
Soil & Growing Conditions
Rocky, acidic soils typical of New England. Glacial deposits. Thin mountain soils. Raised beds very popular.
What to Plant in Vermont
Vermont's short growing season rewards strategic planning. Cold-hardy crops are your strength, and warm-season crops need indoor starting. These are the best performers for Vermont's climate:
Top Picks for Vermont
Worth the Effort
With indoor starting and season extension, Vermont gardeners also grow excellent tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, and sunflowers. The long summer daylight hours drive faster growth than you'd expect:
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:
Last reviewed: March 29, 2026