Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Portsmouth, VA, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 8a.
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Portsmouth, VA Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for Portsmouth, VA
The average last frost date in spring for Portsmouth is April 10th. For gardeners planting sensitive crops like tomatoes, peppers, and basil, it is generally recommended to wait until April 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 Portsmouth, VA
The average first frost date in fall for Portsmouth is November 15th. 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 Portsmouth, VA
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Portsmouth 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.
Portsmouth, VA Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
Portsmouth, VA Monthly Planting Recommendations
January
In January, recommended activities include starting Onion seeds indoors (from January 30th to February 13th), starting Petunia seeds indoors (from January 30th to February 13th), and starting Lavender seeds indoors (from January 30th to February 13th).
February
In February, recommended activities include starting Marigold seeds indoors (from February 27th to March 13th), starting Broccoli seeds indoors (from February 13th to February 27th), and starting Cabbage seeds indoors (from February 13th to February 27th).
March
In March, recommended activities include direct sowing Alfalfa (from March 13th to March 27th), direct sowing Garden Cress (from March 13th to March 27th), and direct sowing Carrot (from March 20th to April 3rd).
April
In April, recommended activities include direct sowing Cucumber (from April 17th to May 1st), direct sowing Butterfly Pea (from April 24th to May 8th), and direct sowing Gladiolus (from April 10th to April 24th).