Planting Dates for Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania offers excellent growing conditions across most of the state, from the fertile Lancaster County farmland to the Philadelphia suburbs. The state's agricultural heritage runs deep with the Amish and Mennonite farming traditions.
USDA Zones 5b-7b • 140-210 frost-free days depending on location
Frost Dates in Pennsylvania
Average last spring frost and first fall frost dates for Pennsylvania cities. Use these to calculate your planting windows.
| City | Last Spring Frost | First Fall Frost | Frost-Free Days | USDA Zone |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia | Apr 1 | Nov 5 | 218 | 7b |
| Pittsburgh | Apr 20 | Oct 18 | 181 | 6b |
| Scranton | May 1 | Oct 5 | 157 | 6a |
Gardening Tips for Pennsylvania
- ✓Lancaster County has some of the most productive farmland in the eastern US.
- ✓Philadelphia-area gardeners enjoy a 200+ day growing season.
- ✓Mountain regions in central PA have shorter seasons — plan accordingly.
- ✓Pennsylvania's clay soils benefit greatly from raised beds and compost amendments.
What to Plant in Pennsylvania
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 Pennsylvania
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Frequently Asked Questions
When is the last frost date in Pennsylvania?
Last frost dates in Pennsylvania vary by city: Philadelphia (Apr 1), Pittsburgh (Apr 20), Scranton (May 1).
What USDA hardiness zones are in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania spans USDA hardiness zones 5b-7b. Your specific zone determines which perennials survive winter and when to start planting annuals.
What vegetables grow best in Pennsylvania?
Hardy crops like peas, kale, spinach, and garlic thrive across Pennsylvania. 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 Pennsylvania?
140-210 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.