Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Manistee, MI, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 6a.
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Manistee, MI Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for Manistee, MI
The average last frost date in spring for Manistee is May 12th. For gardeners planting sensitive crops like tomatoes, peppers, and basil, it is generally recommended to wait until May 26th 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 Manistee, MI
The average first frost date in fall for Manistee 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 Manistee, MI
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Manistee is approximately 156 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.
Manistee, MI Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
Manistee, MI Monthly Planting Recommendations
March
In March, recommended activities include starting French Lavender seeds indoors (from March 3rd to March 17th), starting Petunia seeds indoors (from March 3rd to March 17th), and starting Coneflower seeds indoors (from March 17th to March 31st).
April
In April, recommended activities include direct sowing Mustard (from April 14th to April 28th), direct sowing Sweet Pea (from April 14th to April 28th), and direct sowing Lettuce (from April 14th to April 28th).
May
In May, recommended activities include direct sowing Sesame (from May 26th to June 9th), direct sowing Black Bean (from May 26th to June 9th), and direct sowing Corn (from May 26th to June 2nd).