Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Portland, AR, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 8a.
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Portland, AR Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for Portland, AR
The average last frost date in spring for Portland is March 25th. For gardeners planting sensitive crops like tomatoes, peppers, and basil, it is generally recommended to wait until April 8th before moving plants outdoors. Waiting these extra few weeks significantly reduces the risk of a late freeze damaging young transplants.
First Fall Frost Date for Portland, AR
The average first frost date in fall for Portland is November 10th. This date marks the approximate end of the growing season for tender plants. Gardeners should plan to harvest frost-sensitive vegetables or provide heavy protection (such as row covers) before this date to avoid crop loss.
Growing Season Length in Portland, AR
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Portland is approximately 230 days. This duration determines which vegetable varieties have enough time to reach maturity before the winter cold sets in. Short-season varieties are recommended for crops that require a longer warm period.
Please note: These dates are climatological averages. Actual weather conditions vary by year. Always check the local 10-day forecast before planting.
Portland, AR Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
Portland, AR Monthly Planting Recommendations
January
In January, recommended activities include starting Pepper seeds indoors (from January 28th to February 11th), starting French Lavender seeds indoors (from January 14th to January 28th), and starting Broccoli seeds indoors (from January 28th to February 11th).
February
In February, recommended activities include starting Sage seeds indoors (from February 11th to February 25th), direct sowing Mustard (from February 25th to March 11th), and starting Marigold seeds indoors (from February 11th to February 25th).
March
In March, recommended activities include direct sowing Calendula (from March 11th to March 25th), direct sowing Milk Thistle (from March 11th to March 25th), and direct sowing Carrot (from March 4th to March 18th).
April
In April, recommended activities include direct sowing Watermelon (from April 8th to April 22nd), direct sowing Sesame (from April 8th to April 22nd), and direct sowing Melon (from April 8th to April 22nd).