Planting Dates for Mississippi

Mississippi's warm climate and rich Delta soils support a very long growing season. Two full crops per year are possible for many vegetables, with mild winters allowing some year-round production.

USDA Zones 7b-9a • 220-280 frost-free days depending on location

Frost Dates in Mississippi

Average last spring frost and first fall frost dates for Mississippi cities. Use these to calculate your planting windows.

CityLast Spring FrostFirst Fall FrostFrost-Free DaysUSDA Zone
JacksonMar 15Nov 82388a
BiloxiFeb 24Nov 252749a
TupeloMar 25Nov 22227b

Gardening Tips for Mississippi

  • ✓Delta region soils are among the most fertile in the nation.
  • ✓Start spring gardens in late January to early February.
  • ✓Provide shade for cool-season crops during the intense summer heat.
  • ✓Fall gardens planted in August-September extend harvests into December.

What to Plant in Mississippi

Cold-Hardy Crops (plant early)

These crops tolerate frost and can be planted 2-6 weeks before your last frost date.

LettuceSemi-Hardy

30-60 days from sowing

PeasHardy

55-70 days from sowing

CarrotsSemi-Hardy

60-80 days from sowing

KaleHardy

50-70 days from sowing

BroccoliSemi-Hardy

55-80 days from transplant

SpinachHardy

35-50 days from sowing

RadishesHardy

20-35 days from sowing

GarlicHardy

July-August the following year

OnionsHardy

90-120 days from transplant

PotatoesSemi-Hardy

70-120 days from planting

BeetsSemi-Hardy

50-70 days from sowing

Swiss ChardSemi-Hardy

50-60 days from sowing

Warm-Season Crops (plant after last frost)

Start these indoors and transplant after all frost danger has passed.

TomatoesVery Tender

60-85 days from transplant

PeppersVery Tender

60-90 days from transplant

BeansTender

50-65 days from sowing

CucumbersVery Tender

50-65 days from sowing

Zucchini & Summer SquashTender

45-60 days from sowing

CornTender

60-100 days from sowing

Herbs (Basil, Cilantro, Dill)Tender

30-60 days from sowing

Get Exact Planting Dates for Mississippi

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 Mississippi?

Last frost dates in Mississippi vary by city: Jackson (Mar 15), Biloxi (Feb 24), Tupelo (Mar 25).

What USDA hardiness zones are in Mississippi?

Mississippi spans USDA hardiness zones 7b-9a. Your specific zone determines which perennials survive winter and when to start planting annuals.

What vegetables grow best in Mississippi?

Hardy crops like peas, kale, spinach, and garlic thrive across Mississippi. 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 Mississippi?

220-280 frost-free days depending on location. Extend your season with cold frames, row covers, and indoor seed starting.

Planting Dates by State

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