Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Sanford, MI, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 5b.
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Sanford, MI Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for Sanford, MI
The average last frost date in spring for Sanford is May 15th. For gardeners planting sensitive crops like tomatoes, peppers, and basil, it is generally recommended to wait until May 29th 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 Sanford, MI
The average first frost date in fall for Sanford is October 5th. 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 Sanford, MI
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Sanford is approximately 143 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.
Sanford, MI Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
Sanford, MI Monthly Planting Recommendations
March
In March, recommended activities include starting Petunia seeds indoors (from March 6th to March 20th), starting Coneflower seeds indoors (from March 20th to April 3rd), and starting Celery seeds indoors (from March 6th to March 20th).
April
In April, recommended activities include direct sowing California Poppy (from April 17th to May 1st), direct sowing Lettuce (from April 17th to May 1st), and direct sowing Bok Choy (from April 17th to May 1st).
May
In May, recommended activities include direct sowing Hyssop (from May 1st to May 15th), direct sowing Beet (from May 1st to May 15th), and direct sowing Zinnia (from May 22nd to June 5th).