Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Rochester, NY, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 6b.
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Rochester, NY Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for Rochester, NY
The average last frost date in spring for Rochester is May 4th. For gardeners planting sensitive crops like tomatoes, peppers, and basil, it is generally recommended to wait until May 18th 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 Rochester, NY
The average first frost date in fall for Rochester is October 25th. 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 Rochester, NY
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Rochester is approximately 174 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.
Rochester, NY Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
Rochester, NY Monthly Planting Recommendations
February
In February, recommended activities include starting Leek seeds indoors (from February 23rd to March 9th), starting Snapdragon seeds indoors (from February 23rd to March 9th), and starting Impatiens seeds indoors (from February 23rd to March 9th).
March
In March, recommended activities include starting Luffa seeds indoors (from March 23rd to April 6th), starting Cauliflower seeds indoors (from March 9th to March 23rd), and direct sowing Spinach (from March 23rd to April 6th).
April
In April, recommended activities include starting Cantaloupe seeds indoors (from April 6th to April 20th), direct sowing Cilantro (from April 20th to May 18th), and direct sowing Chives (from April 6th to April 20th).
May
In May, recommended activities include direct sowing Runner Bean (from May 11th to May 25th), direct sowing Moss Rose (from May 11th to May 25th), and direct sowing Fenugreek (from May 4th to May 18th).