Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Ottawa, KS, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 6a.
On this page:
Ottawa, KS Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for Ottawa, KS
The average last frost date in spring for Ottawa is April 22nd. For gardeners planting sensitive crops like tomatoes, peppers, and basil, it is generally recommended to wait until May 6th 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 Ottawa, KS
The average first frost date in fall for Ottawa is October 15th. 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 Ottawa, KS
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Ottawa is approximately 176 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.
Ottawa, KS Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
Ottawa, KS Monthly Planting Recommendations
February
In February, recommended activities include starting Stevia seeds indoors (from February 25th to March 11th), starting Celery seeds indoors (from February 11th to February 25th), and starting Impatiens seeds indoors (from February 11th to February 25th).
March
In March, recommended activities include direct sowing Arugula (from March 25th to April 8th), direct sowing Alfalfa (from March 25th to April 8th), starting Kale seeds indoors (from March 11th to March 25th), and direct sowing Kale (from March 25th to April 8th).
April
In April, recommended activities include direct sowing Swiss Chard (from April 8th to April 22nd), direct sowing Zucchini (from April 29th to May 13th), and direct sowing Quinoa (from April 8th to April 22nd).
May
In May, recommended activities include direct sowing Lima Bean (from May 6th to May 20th), direct sowing Jute (from May 6th to May 20th), and direct sowing Sesame (from May 6th to May 20th).