Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Elk rapids, MI, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 6a.
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Elk rapids, MI Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for Elk rapids, MI
The average last frost date in spring for Elk rapids is May 22nd. For gardeners planting sensitive crops like tomatoes, peppers, and basil, it is generally recommended to wait until June 5th 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 Elk rapids, MI
The average first frost date in fall for Elk rapids 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 Elk rapids, MI
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Elk rapids is approximately 146 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.
Elk rapids, MI Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
Elk rapids, MI Monthly Planting Recommendations
March
In March, recommended activities include starting Petunia seeds indoors (from March 13th to March 27th), starting Pepper seeds indoors (from March 27th to April 10th), and starting Oregano seeds indoors (from March 27th to April 10th).
April
In April, recommended activities include direct sowing Arugula (from April 24th to May 8th), direct sowing Parsley (from April 24th to May 8th), starting Kale seeds indoors (from April 10th to April 24th), and direct sowing Kale (from April 24th to May 8th).
May
In May, recommended activities include direct sowing Milk Thistle (from May 8th to May 22nd), direct sowing German Chamomile (from May 8th to May 22nd), and direct sowing Nasturtium (from May 29th to June 5th).
June
In June, recommended activities include direct sowing Mung Bean (from June 5th to June 19th), direct sowing Jute (from June 5th to June 19th), and direct sowing Okra (from June 5th to June 19th).