Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Downing, MO, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 6a.
On this page:
Downing, MO Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for Downing, MO
The average last frost date in spring for Downing is April 23rd. For gardeners planting sensitive crops like tomatoes, peppers, and basil, it is generally recommended to wait until May 7th 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 Downing, MO
The average first frost date in fall for Downing 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 Downing, MO
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Downing is approximately 175 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.
Downing, MO Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
Downing, MO Monthly Planting Recommendations
February
In February, recommended activities include starting Tomatillo seeds indoors (from February 26th to March 12th), starting Pansy seeds indoors (from February 12th to February 26th), and starting Black Eyed Susan seeds indoors (from February 26th to March 12th).
March
In March, recommended activities include starting Brussel Sprout seeds indoors (from March 12th to March 26th), starting Cantaloupe seeds indoors (from March 26th to April 9th), and direct sowing Arugula (from March 26th to April 9th).
April
In April, recommended activities include direct sowing Morning Glory (from April 30th to May 14th), direct sowing Butternut Squash (from April 30th to May 14th), and direct sowing Lemon Balm (from April 23rd to May 7th).
May
In May, recommended activities include direct sowing Black Bean (from May 7th to May 21st), direct sowing Lima Bean (from May 7th to May 21st), and direct sowing Corn (from May 7th to May 14th).