Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Athens, WI, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 4b.
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Athens, WI Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for Athens, WI
The average last frost date in spring for Athens is June 1st. For gardeners planting sensitive crops like tomatoes, peppers, and basil, it is generally recommended to wait until June 15th 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 Athens, WI
The average first frost date in fall for Athens is September 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 Athens, WI
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Athens is approximately 116 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.
Athens, WI Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
Athens, WI Monthly Planting Recommendations
March
In March, recommended activities include starting Begonia seeds indoors (from March 23rd to April 6th), starting Lavender seeds indoors (from March 23rd to April 6th), and starting Snapdragon seeds indoors (from March 23rd to April 6th).
April
In April, recommended activities include direct sowing Pea (from April 20th to May 4th), starting Tomatillo seeds indoors (from April 6th to April 20th), and starting Pepper seeds indoors (from April 6th to April 20th).
May
In May, recommended activities include direct sowing Lettuce (from May 4th to May 18th), direct sowing Alyssum (from May 18th to June 1st), and direct sowing German Chamomile (from May 18th to June 1st).
June
In June, recommended activities include direct sowing Mung Bean (from June 15th to June 29th), direct sowing Lima Bean (from June 15th to June 29th), and direct sowing Fenugreek (from June 1st to June 15th).