Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Ames, NE, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 5b.
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Ames, NE Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for Ames, NE
The average last frost date in spring for Ames is April 28th. For gardeners planting sensitive crops like tomatoes, peppers, and basil, it is generally recommended to wait until May 12th 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 Ames, NE
The average first frost date in fall for Ames 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 Ames, NE
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Ames is approximately 160 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.
Ames, NE Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
Ames, NE Monthly Planting Recommendations
February
In February, recommended activities include starting Leek seeds indoors (from February 17th to March 3rd), starting Begonia seeds indoors (from February 17th to March 3rd), and starting Celery seeds indoors (from February 17th to March 3rd).
March
In March, recommended activities include starting Sage seeds indoors (from March 17th to March 31st), direct sowing Poppy (from March 31st to April 14th), and starting Aubergine seeds indoors (from March 3rd to March 17th).
April
In April, recommended activities include direct sowing Hyssop (from April 14th to April 28th), direct sowing Swiss Chard (from April 14th to April 28th), and direct sowing Lentil (from April 14th to April 28th).
May
In May, recommended activities include direct sowing Cucumber (from May 5th to May 19th), direct sowing Corn (from May 12th to May 19th), and direct sowing Moss Rose (from May 5th to May 19th).