Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Hartford, SD, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 4b.
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Hartford, SD Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for Hartford, SD
The average last frost date in spring for Hartford is May 10th. For gardeners planting sensitive crops like tomatoes, peppers, and basil, it is generally recommended to wait until May 24th 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 Hartford, SD
The average first frost date in fall for Hartford 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 Hartford, SD
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Hartford is approximately 148 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.
Hartford, SD Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
Hartford, SD Monthly Planting Recommendations
March
In March, recommended activities include starting Kale seeds indoors (from March 29th to April 12th), starting Tomatillo seeds indoors (from March 15th to March 29th), and starting Broccoli seeds indoors (from March 15th to March 29th).
April
In April, recommended activities include direct sowing Sorrel (from April 12th to April 26th), direct sowing Garden Cress (from April 12th to April 26th), and direct sowing Poppy (from April 12th to April 26th).
May
In May, recommended activities include direct sowing Zucchini (from May 17th to May 31st), direct sowing Okra (from May 24th to June 7th), and direct sowing Lima Bean (from May 24th to June 7th).