Planting Dates for Kentucky
Kentucky's moderate climate and fertile bluegrass soils provide excellent growing conditions. The state enjoys a generous growing season with enough heat for warm-season crops and cool enough springs for early planting.
USDA Zones 6a-7a • 170-210 frost-free days depending on location
Frost Dates in Kentucky
Average last spring frost and first fall frost dates for Kentucky cities. Use these to calculate your planting windows.
| City | Last Spring Frost | First Fall Frost | Frost-Free Days | USDA Zone |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Louisville | Apr 8 | Oct 25 | 200 | 6b |
| Lexington | Apr 13 | Oct 22 | 192 | 6b |
| Bowling Green | Apr 7 | Oct 23 | 199 | 6b |
Gardening Tips for Kentucky
- ✓Bluegrass region soils are naturally fertile — ideal for vegetable gardens.
- ✓Start tomatoes and peppers indoors in March for May transplanting.
- ✓Eastern Kentucky mountains have shorter seasons than the central part of the state.
- ✓Fall gardens are highly productive — plant in August for harvest through November.
What to Plant in Kentucky
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 Kentucky
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Frequently Asked Questions
When is the last frost date in Kentucky?
Last frost dates in Kentucky vary by city: Louisville (Apr 8), Lexington (Apr 13), Bowling Green (Apr 7).
What USDA hardiness zones are in Kentucky?
Kentucky spans USDA hardiness zones 6a-7a. Your specific zone determines which perennials survive winter and when to start planting annuals.
What vegetables grow best in Kentucky?
Hardy crops like peas, kale, spinach, and garlic thrive across Kentucky. 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 Kentucky?
170-210 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.