Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Hickory, PA, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 6a.
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Hickory, PA Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for Hickory, PA
The average last frost date in spring for Hickory is May 11th. For gardeners planting sensitive crops like tomatoes, peppers, and basil, it is generally recommended to wait until May 25th 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 Hickory, PA
The average first frost date in fall for Hickory is October 18th. 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 Hickory, PA
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Hickory 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.
Hickory, PA Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
Hickory, PA Monthly Planting Recommendations
March
In March, recommended activities include starting Geranium seeds indoors (from March 2nd to March 16th), starting Onion seeds indoors (from March 2nd to March 16th), and starting French Lavender seeds indoors (from March 2nd to March 16th).
April
In April, recommended activities include direct sowing Watercress (from April 13th to April 27th), direct sowing Swiss Chard (from April 27th to May 11th), and direct sowing Beet (from April 27th to May 11th).
May
In May, recommended activities include direct sowing Gladiolus (from May 11th to May 25th), direct sowing Cosmos (from May 18th to May 25th), and direct sowing Lemon Balm (from May 11th to May 25th).