Planting Dates for South Carolina
South Carolina's warm climate and long growing season support diverse vegetable production. The Lowcountry coast has near-subtropical conditions, while the Upstate has more traditional four-season gardening.
USDA Zones 7a-9a • 200-280 frost-free days depending on location
Frost Dates in South Carolina
Average last spring frost and first fall frost dates for South Carolina cities. Use these to calculate your planting windows.
| City | Last Spring Frost | First Fall Frost | Frost-Free Days | USDA Zone |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Columbia | Mar 20 | Nov 10 | 235 | 8a |
| Charleston | Feb 25 | Nov 25 | 273 | 9a |
| Greenville | Apr 2 | Nov 3 | 215 | 7b |
Gardening Tips for South Carolina
- ✓Lowcountry gardeners can plant warm crops as early as March.
- ✓Upstate gardens benefit from cooler mountain air for cool-season crops.
- ✓Summer heat requires heat-tolerant varieties and consistent watering.
- ✓Plant okra, southern peas, and sweet potatoes for heat-loving crops.
What to Plant in South 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 South Carolina
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Frequently Asked Questions
When is the last frost date in South Carolina?
Last frost dates in South Carolina vary by city: Columbia (Mar 20), Charleston (Feb 25), Greenville (Apr 2).
What USDA hardiness zones are in South Carolina?
South Carolina spans USDA hardiness zones 7a-9a. Your specific zone determines which perennials survive winter and when to start planting annuals.
What vegetables grow best in South Carolina?
Hardy crops like peas, kale, spinach, and garlic thrive across South 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 South Carolina?
200-280 frost-free days depending on location. Extend your season with cold frames, row covers, and indoor seed starting.
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