Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Dowagiac, MI, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 6a.
On this page:
Dowagiac, MI Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for Dowagiac, MI
The average last frost date in spring for Dowagiac is May 4th. For gardeners planting sensitive crops like tomatoes, peppers, and basil, it is generally recommended to wait until May 18th 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 Dowagiac, MI
The average first frost date in fall for Dowagiac 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 Dowagiac, MI
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Dowagiac is approximately 164 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.
Dowagiac, MI Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
Dowagiac, MI Monthly Planting Recommendations
February
In February, recommended activities include starting Onion seeds indoors (from February 23rd to March 9th), starting Snapdragon seeds indoors (from February 23rd to March 9th), and starting Impatiens seeds indoors (from February 23rd to March 9th).
March
In March, recommended activities include starting Cauliflower seeds indoors (from March 9th to March 23rd), starting Broccoli seeds indoors (from March 9th to March 23rd), and starting Moonflower seeds indoors (from March 23rd to April 6th).
April
In April, recommended activities include direct sowing Calendula (from April 20th to May 4th), direct sowing Beet (from April 20th to May 4th), and direct sowing Garden Cress (from April 6th to April 20th).
May
In May, recommended activities include direct sowing Anise (from May 11th to May 18th), direct sowing Gladiolus (from May 4th to May 18th), and direct sowing Butterfly Pea (from May 18th to June 1st).