Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Salem, VA, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 7a.
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Salem, VA Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for Salem, VA
The average last frost date in spring for Salem is April 25th. For gardeners planting sensitive crops like tomatoes, peppers, and basil, it is generally recommended to wait until May 9th 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 Salem, VA
The average first frost date in fall for Salem is October 25th. 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 Salem, VA
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Salem is approximately 183 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.
Salem, VA Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
Salem, VA Monthly Planting Recommendations
February
In February, recommended activities include starting Snapdragon seeds indoors (from February 14th to February 28th), starting French Lavender seeds indoors (from February 14th to February 28th), and starting Pepper seeds indoors (from February 28th to March 14th).
March
In March, recommended activities include direct sowing Spinach (from March 14th to March 28th), starting Cantaloupe seeds indoors (from March 28th to April 11th), and direct sowing Flax (from March 28th to April 11th).
April
In April, recommended activities include direct sowing Swiss Chard (from April 11th to April 25th), direct sowing Carrot (from April 4th to April 18th), and direct sowing Babys Breath (from April 25th to May 9th).
May
In May, recommended activities include direct sowing Sesame (from May 9th to May 23rd), direct sowing Chia (from May 9th to May 23rd), and direct sowing Cucumber (from May 2nd to May 16th).