Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Shippensburg, PA, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 6b.
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Shippensburg, PA Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for Shippensburg, PA
The average last frost date in spring for Shippensburg is April 29th. For gardeners planting sensitive crops like tomatoes, peppers, and basil, it is generally recommended to wait until May 13th 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 Shippensburg, PA
The average first frost date in fall for Shippensburg 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 Shippensburg, PA
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Shippensburg is approximately 172 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.
Shippensburg, PA Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
Shippensburg, PA Monthly Planting Recommendations
February
In February, recommended activities include starting Leek seeds indoors (from February 18th to March 4th), starting Onion seeds indoors (from February 18th to March 4th), and starting Pansy seeds indoors (from February 18th to March 4th).
March
In March, recommended activities include starting Tomato seeds indoors (from March 4th to March 18th), starting Oregano seeds indoors (from March 4th to March 18th), and starting Coleus seeds indoors (from March 4th to March 18th).
April
In April, recommended activities include direct sowing Cilantro (from April 15th to May 13th), direct sowing Quinoa (from April 15th to April 29th), and direct sowing German Chamomile (from April 15th to April 29th).
May
In May, recommended activities include direct sowing Melon (from May 13th to May 27th), direct sowing Mung Bean (from May 13th to May 27th), and direct sowing Cantaloupe (from May 6th to May 20th).