Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Dover, NC, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 8b.
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Dover, NC Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for Dover, NC
The average last frost date in spring for Dover is April 1st. For gardeners planting sensitive crops like tomatoes, peppers, and basil, it is generally recommended to wait until April 15th 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 Dover, NC
The average first frost date in fall for Dover is November 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 Dover, NC
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Dover is approximately 218 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.
Dover, NC Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
Dover, NC Monthly Planting Recommendations
January
In January, recommended activities include starting Rosemary seeds indoors (from January 21st to February 4th), starting Artichoke seeds indoors (from January 21st to February 4th), and starting Begonia seeds indoors (from January 21st to February 4th).
February
In February, recommended activities include starting Brussel Sprout seeds indoors (from February 18th to March 4th), starting Moonflower seeds indoors (from February 18th to March 4th), and starting Thyme seeds indoors (from February 4th to February 18th).
March
In March, recommended activities include direct sowing Sweet Pea (from March 4th to March 18th), direct sowing Calendula (from March 18th to April 1st), and direct sowing Beet (from March 18th to April 1st).
April
In April, recommended activities include direct sowing Melon (from April 15th to April 29th), direct sowing Corn (from April 15th to April 22nd), and direct sowing Morning Glory (from April 8th to April 22nd).