Planting Dates for North Carolina
North Carolina's three distinct regions — Mountains, Piedmont, and Coastal Plain — each offer unique growing conditions. The Piedmont is ideal for diverse vegetable production with its moderate climate.
USDA Zones 5b-8b • 150-250 frost-free days depending on location
Frost Dates in North Carolina
Average last spring frost and first fall frost dates for North Carolina cities. Use these to calculate your planting windows.
| City | Last Spring Frost | First Fall Frost | Frost-Free Days | USDA Zone |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Charlotte | Mar 30 | Nov 5 | 220 | 8a |
| Raleigh | Apr 1 | Nov 3 | 216 | 7b |
| Asheville | Apr 16 | Oct 18 | 185 | 7a |
Gardening Tips for North Carolina
- ✓Mountain gardeners (zones 5-6) should use short-season varieties.
- ✓The Piedmont region offers excellent all-around growing conditions.
- ✓Coastal Plain has a long season — plant warm crops by mid-April.
- ✓Sweet potatoes thrive in North Carolina's sandy coastal soils.
What to Plant in North Carolina
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 North Carolina
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Frequently Asked Questions
When is the last frost date in North Carolina?
Last frost dates in North Carolina vary by city: Charlotte (Mar 30), Raleigh (Apr 1), Asheville (Apr 16).
What USDA hardiness zones are in North Carolina?
North Carolina spans USDA hardiness zones 5b-8b. Your specific zone determines which perennials survive winter and when to start planting annuals.
What vegetables grow best in North Carolina?
Hardy crops like peas, kale, spinach, and garlic thrive across North Carolina. 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 North Carolina?
150-250 frost-free days depending on location. Extend your season with cold frames, row covers, and indoor seed starting.
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