Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Athens, OH, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 6b.
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Athens, OH Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for Athens, OH
The average last frost date in spring for Athens is April 26th. For gardeners planting sensitive crops like tomatoes, peppers, and basil, it is generally recommended to wait until May 10th 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 Athens, OH
The average first frost date in fall for Athens is October 20th. 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 Athens, OH
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Athens is approximately 177 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.
Athens, OH Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
Athens, OH Monthly Planting Recommendations
February
In February, recommended activities include starting Leek seeds indoors (from February 15th to March 1st), starting Petunia seeds indoors (from February 15th to March 1st), and starting Lavender seeds indoors (from February 15th to March 1st).
March
In March, recommended activities include starting Pepper seeds indoors (from March 1st to March 15th), direct sowing Potato (from March 29th to April 12th), and direct sowing Chives (from March 29th to April 12th).
April
In April, recommended activities include direct sowing Quinoa (from April 12th to April 26th), direct sowing Hyssop (from April 12th to April 26th), and direct sowing Fennel (from April 12th to April 26th).
May
In May, recommended activities include direct sowing Cucumber (from May 3rd to May 17th), direct sowing Runner Bean (from May 3rd to May 17th), and direct sowing Cantaloupe (from May 3rd to May 17th).