Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Hartford, MI, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 6a.
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Hartford, MI Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for Hartford, MI
The average last frost date in spring for Hartford is May 3rd. For gardeners planting sensitive crops like tomatoes, peppers, and basil, it is generally recommended to wait until May 17th 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 Hartford, MI
The average first frost date in fall for Hartford is October 18th. 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 Hartford, MI
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Hartford is approximately 168 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.
Hartford, MI Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
Hartford, MI Monthly Planting Recommendations
February
In February, recommended activities include starting Pansy seeds indoors (from February 22nd to March 8th), starting Begonia seeds indoors (from February 22nd to March 8th), and starting Snapdragon seeds indoors (from February 22nd to March 8th).
March
In March, recommended activities include starting Pepper seeds indoors (from March 8th to March 22nd), starting Cabbage seeds indoors (from March 8th to March 22nd), and starting Cauliflower seeds indoors (from March 8th to March 22nd).
April
In April, recommended activities include direct sowing Chervil (from April 5th to April 19th), direct sowing Parsley (from April 5th to April 19th), and direct sowing Poppy (from April 5th to April 19th).
May
In May, recommended activities include direct sowing Zinnia (from May 10th to May 24th), direct sowing Pumpkin (from May 10th to May 24th), and direct sowing Corn (from May 17th to May 24th).