Planting Dates for Connecticut
Connecticut offers zones 5b-7a with a moderate growing season. The coastal areas enjoy milder temperatures and longer seasons, while inland valleys can experience late spring frosts.
USDA Zones 5b-7a • 140-185 frost-free days depending on location
Frost Dates in Connecticut
Average last spring frost and first fall frost dates for Connecticut cities. Use these to calculate your planting windows.
| City | Last Spring Frost | First Fall Frost | Frost-Free Days | USDA Zone |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hartford | Apr 22 | Oct 12 | 173 | 6b |
| New Haven | Apr 15 | Oct 22 | 190 | 7a |
| Bridgeport | Apr 10 | Oct 28 | 201 | 7a |
Gardening Tips for Connecticut
- ✓Coastal gardeners benefit from the Long Island Sound moderating temperatures.
- ✓Start warm-season crops indoors by mid-March for transplanting in late May.
- ✓Fall gardens thrive with cool crops planted in August through September.
- ✓Deer pressure is high — consider fencing for vegetable gardens.
What to Plant in Connecticut
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 Connecticut
Enter your city's frost date and get precise seed starting, transplant, and harvest dates for 38+ vegetables — free.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the last frost date in Connecticut?
Last frost dates in Connecticut vary by city: Hartford (Apr 22), New Haven (Apr 15), Bridgeport (Apr 10).
What USDA hardiness zones are in Connecticut?
Connecticut spans USDA hardiness zones 5b-7a. Your specific zone determines which perennials survive winter and when to start planting annuals.
What vegetables grow best in Connecticut?
Hardy crops like peas, kale, spinach, and garlic thrive across Connecticut. 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 Connecticut?
140-185 frost-free days depending on location. Extend your season with cold frames, row covers, and indoor seed starting.
Planting Dates by State
Explore More Resources
Planting Dates by Province
Province-specific planting dates, zones, and growing tips for all 10 provinces.
US State Planting Dates
USDA zones, frost dates, and growing tips for all 50 US states.
Frost Dates Canada
Find your last spring frost and first fall frost dates by province.
When to Plant Vegetables
19 popular crops with timing, frost tolerance, and Canadian tips.
Succession Planting
Plan continuous harvests with succession planting schedules.
Free Calculator
Calculate exact planting dates based on your location and frost dates.