Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Chapel hill, NC, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 8a.
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Chapel hill, NC Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for Chapel hill, NC
The average last frost date in spring for Chapel hill is April 10th. For gardeners planting sensitive crops like tomatoes, peppers, and basil, it is generally recommended to wait until April 24th 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 Chapel hill, NC
The average first frost date in fall for Chapel hill is November 1st. 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 Chapel hill, NC
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Chapel hill is approximately 205 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.
Chapel hill, NC Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
Chapel hill, NC Monthly Planting Recommendations
January
In January, recommended activities include starting Pansy seeds indoors (from January 30th to February 13th), starting Lavender seeds indoors (from January 30th to February 13th), and starting Snapdragon seeds indoors (from January 30th to February 13th).
February
In February, recommended activities include starting Coleus seeds indoors (from February 13th to February 27th), starting Ground Cherry seeds indoors (from February 13th to February 27th), and starting Basil seeds indoors (from February 27th to March 13th).
March
In March, recommended activities include direct sowing Sorrel (from March 13th to March 27th), direct sowing Chives (from March 13th to March 27th), and direct sowing California Poppy (from March 13th to March 27th).
April
In April, recommended activities include direct sowing Anise (from April 17th to April 24th), direct sowing Gladiolus (from April 10th to April 24th), and direct sowing Watermelon (from April 24th to May 8th).