Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Franconia, VA, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 7b.
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Franconia, VA Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for Franconia, VA
The average last frost date in spring for Franconia is April 3rd. For gardeners planting sensitive crops like tomatoes, peppers, and basil, it is generally recommended to wait until April 17th 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 Franconia, VA
The average first frost date in fall for Franconia is November 8th. 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 Franconia, VA
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Franconia is approximately 219 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.
Franconia, VA Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
Franconia, VA Monthly Planting Recommendations
January
In January, recommended activities include starting Impatiens seeds indoors (from January 23rd to February 6th), starting French Lavender seeds indoors (from January 23rd to February 6th), and starting Petunia seeds indoors (from January 23rd to February 6th).
February
In February, recommended activities include starting Cauliflower seeds indoors (from February 6th to February 20th), starting Cabbage seeds indoors (from February 6th to February 20th), and starting Basil seeds indoors (from February 20th to March 6th).
March
In March, recommended activities include direct sowing Arugula (from March 6th to March 20th), direct sowing German Chamomile (from March 20th to April 3rd), and direct sowing Alfalfa (from March 6th to March 20th).
April
In April, recommended activities include direct sowing Black Bean (from April 17th to May 1st), direct sowing Cosmos (from April 10th to April 17th), and direct sowing Zucchini (from April 10th to April 24th).