Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Detroit, MI, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 6b.
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Detroit, MI Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for Detroit, MI
The average last frost date in spring for Detroit is April 28th. For gardeners planting sensitive crops like tomatoes, peppers, and basil, it is generally recommended to wait until May 12th 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 Detroit, MI
The average first frost date in fall for Detroit is October 25th. 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 Detroit, MI
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Detroit is approximately 180 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.
Detroit, MI Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
Detroit, MI Monthly Planting Recommendations
February
In February, recommended activities include starting Impatiens seeds indoors (from February 17th to March 3rd), starting Celery seeds indoors (from February 17th to March 3rd), and starting Leek seeds indoors (from February 17th to March 3rd).
March
In March, recommended activities include direct sowing Crimson Clover (from March 31st to April 14th), direct sowing Sorrel (from March 31st to April 14th), and direct sowing Spinach (from March 17th to March 31st).
April
In April, recommended activities include direct sowing Alyssum (from April 14th to April 28th), direct sowing Cilantro (from April 14th to May 12th), and direct sowing Fennel (from April 14th to April 28th).
May
In May, recommended activities include direct sowing Butterfly Pea (from May 12th to May 26th), direct sowing Butternut Squash (from May 5th to May 19th), and direct sowing Cantaloupe (from May 5th to May 19th).