Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Ithaca, NE, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 5b.
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Ithaca, NE Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for Ithaca, NE
The average last frost date in spring for Ithaca is April 27th. For gardeners planting sensitive crops like tomatoes, peppers, and basil, it is generally recommended to wait until May 11th 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 Ithaca, NE
The average first frost date in fall for Ithaca is October 6th. 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 Ithaca, NE
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Ithaca is approximately 162 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.
Ithaca, NE Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
Ithaca, NE Monthly Planting Recommendations
February
In February, recommended activities include starting Begonia seeds indoors (from February 16th to March 2nd), starting Leek seeds indoors (from February 16th to March 2nd), and starting Snapdragon seeds indoors (from February 16th to March 2nd).
March
In March, recommended activities include starting Aubergine seeds indoors (from March 2nd to March 16th), direct sowing Chervil (from March 30th to April 13th), and direct sowing Arugula (from March 30th to April 13th).
April
In April, recommended activities include direct sowing Calendula (from April 13th to April 27th), direct sowing Lentil (from April 13th to April 27th), and direct sowing German Chamomile (from April 13th to April 27th).
May
In May, recommended activities include direct sowing Jute (from May 11th to May 25th), direct sowing Okra (from May 11th to May 25th), and direct sowing Moss Rose (from May 4th to May 18th).