Planting Dates for Missouri
Missouri's central location provides a moderate climate with warm summers and mild winters. The state's diverse soils, from Ozark highlands to Missouri River bottomlands, support excellent vegetable production.
USDA Zones 5b-7a • 170-210 frost-free days depending on location
Frost Dates in Missouri
Average last spring frost and first fall frost dates for Missouri cities. Use these to calculate your planting windows.
| City | Last Spring Frost | First Fall Frost | Frost-Free Days | USDA Zone |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kansas City | Apr 7 | Oct 24 | 200 | 6a |
| St. Louis | Apr 2 | Oct 28 | 209 | 7a |
| Springfield | Apr 10 | Oct 20 | 193 | 6b |
Gardening Tips for Missouri
- ✓Missouri River bottom soils are rich and productive for vegetable gardens.
- ✓The Ozark region has slightly cooler conditions than the rest of the state.
- ✓Start warm crops indoors in March for mid-April to May transplanting.
- ✓Double-cropping is feasible — follow spring peas with fall brassicas.
What to Plant in Missouri
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 Missouri
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 Missouri?
Last frost dates in Missouri vary by city: Kansas City (Apr 7), St. Louis (Apr 2), Springfield (Apr 10).
What USDA hardiness zones are in Missouri?
Missouri 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 Missouri?
Hardy crops like peas, kale, spinach, and garlic thrive across Missouri. 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 Missouri?
170-210 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.