Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Boston, MA, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 7a.
On this page:
Boston, MA Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for Boston, MA
The average last frost date in spring for Boston is April 11th. For gardeners planting sensitive crops like tomatoes, peppers, and basil, it is generally recommended to wait until April 25th 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 Boston, MA
The average first frost date in fall for Boston is November 5th. 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 Boston, MA
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Boston is approximately 208 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.
Boston, MA Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
Boston, MA Monthly Planting Recommendations
January
In January, recommended activities include starting Impatiens seeds indoors (from January 31st to February 14th), starting French Lavender seeds indoors (from January 31st to February 14th), and starting Leek seeds indoors (from January 31st to February 14th).
February
In February, recommended activities include starting Tomatillo seeds indoors (from February 14th to February 28th), starting Basil seeds indoors (from February 28th to March 14th), and starting Statice seeds indoors (from February 14th to February 28th).
March
In March, recommended activities include direct sowing Cilantro (from March 28th to April 25th), direct sowing Parsley (from March 14th to March 28th), and direct sowing German Chamomile (from March 28th to April 11th).
April
In April, recommended activities include direct sowing Melon (from April 25th to May 9th), direct sowing Pumpkin (from April 18th to May 2nd), and direct sowing Fenugreek (from April 11th to April 25th).