Planting Dates for Maryland
Maryland's location between the mountains and Chesapeake Bay creates diverse growing zones. The Eastern Shore and southern counties enjoy mild conditions, while western Maryland has mountain-influenced seasons.
USDA Zones 5b-8a • 150-220 frost-free days depending on location
Frost Dates in Maryland
Average last spring frost and first fall frost dates for Maryland cities. Use these to calculate your planting windows.
| City | Last Spring Frost | First Fall Frost | Frost-Free Days | USDA Zone |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Baltimore | Apr 3 | Nov 4 | 215 | 7b |
| Frederick | Apr 19 | Oct 14 | 178 | 7a |
| Ocean City | Mar 28 | Nov 10 | 227 | 8a |
Gardening Tips for Maryland
- ✓The Eastern Shore has excellent sandy loam soils for root vegetables.
- ✓Western Maryland gardeners face shorter seasons and cooler temperatures.
- ✓Chesapeake Bay moderates coastal temperatures for extended growing.
- ✓Start warm crops indoors in March for transplanting in early to mid-May.
What to Plant in Maryland
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 Maryland
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 Maryland?
Last frost dates in Maryland vary by city: Baltimore (Apr 3), Frederick (Apr 19), Ocean City (Mar 28).
What USDA hardiness zones are in Maryland?
Maryland spans USDA hardiness zones 5b-8a. Your specific zone determines which perennials survive winter and when to start planting annuals.
What vegetables grow best in Maryland?
Hardy crops like peas, kale, spinach, and garlic thrive across Maryland. 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 Maryland?
150-220 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.