Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Elmira, NY, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 6a.
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Elmira, NY Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for Elmira, NY
The average last frost date in spring for Elmira is May 13th. For gardeners planting sensitive crops like tomatoes, peppers, and basil, it is generally recommended to wait until May 27th 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 Elmira, NY
The average first frost date in fall for Elmira 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 Elmira, NY
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Elmira is approximately 145 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.
Elmira, NY Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
Elmira, NY Monthly Planting Recommendations
March
In March, recommended activities include starting Impatiens seeds indoors (from March 4th to March 18th), starting Celery seeds indoors (from March 4th to March 18th), and starting Leek seeds indoors (from March 4th to March 18th).
April
In April, recommended activities include direct sowing Flax (from April 15th to April 29th), direct sowing Hyssop (from April 29th to May 13th), and direct sowing Spinach (from April 1st to April 15th).
May
In May, recommended activities include direct sowing Black Bean (from May 27th to June 10th), direct sowing Cantaloupe (from May 20th to June 3rd), and direct sowing Jute (from May 27th to June 10th).