Planting Dates for Alabama
Alabama's warm, humid climate provides a long growing season ideal for warm-season crops. Northern Alabama has cooler mountain conditions, while the Gulf Coast enjoys near-subtropical gardening.
USDA Zones 7a-9a • 200-280 frost-free days depending on location
Frost Dates in Alabama
Average last spring frost and first fall frost dates for Alabama cities. Use these to calculate your planting windows.
| City | Last Spring Frost | First Fall Frost | Frost-Free Days | USDA Zone |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Birmingham | Mar 29 | Nov 7 | 223 | 8a |
| Mobile | Feb 27 | Nov 26 | 272 | 9a |
| Huntsville | Apr 3 | Oct 30 | 210 | 7b |
Gardening Tips for Alabama
- ✓Gulf Coast gardeners can plant warm crops as early as mid-March.
- ✓Summer heat requires shade cloth for cool-season crops like lettuce.
- ✓Plant fall gardens in August-September for a productive second season.
- ✓Fire ants are a common garden pest — use organic baits around beds.
What to Plant in Alabama
Cold-Hardy Crops (plant early)
These crops tolerate frost and can be planted 2-6 weeks before your last frost date.
30-60 days from sowing
55-70 days from sowing
60-80 days from sowing
50-70 days from sowing
55-80 days from transplant
35-50 days from sowing
20-35 days from sowing
July-August the following year
90-120 days from transplant
70-120 days from planting
50-70 days from sowing
50-60 days from sowing
Warm-Season Crops (plant after last frost)
Start these indoors and transplant after all frost danger has passed.
60-85 days from transplant
60-90 days from transplant
50-65 days from sowing
50-65 days from sowing
45-60 days from sowing
60-100 days from sowing
30-60 days from sowing
Get Exact Planting Dates for Alabama
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Frequently Asked Questions
When is the last frost date in Alabama?
Last frost dates in Alabama vary by city: Birmingham (Mar 29), Mobile (Feb 27), Huntsville (Apr 3).
What USDA hardiness zones are in Alabama?
Alabama spans USDA hardiness zones 7a-9a. Your specific zone determines which perennials survive winter and when to start planting annuals.
What vegetables grow best in Alabama?
Hardy crops like peas, kale, spinach, and garlic thrive across Alabama. In warmer zones, tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers do well with proper timing. Use our free calculator for exact planting dates.
How long is the growing season in Alabama?
200-280 frost-free days depending on location. Extend your season with cold frames, row covers, and indoor seed starting.
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Calculate exact planting dates based on your location and frost dates.