Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Rochester, WI, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 5b.
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Rochester, WI Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for Rochester, WI
The average last frost date in spring for Rochester is May 6th. For gardeners planting sensitive crops like tomatoes, peppers, and basil, it is generally recommended to wait until May 20th 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 Rochester, WI
The average first frost date in fall for Rochester is October 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 Rochester, WI
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Rochester is approximately 162 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.
Rochester, WI Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
Rochester, WI Monthly Planting Recommendations
February
In February, recommended activities include starting Leek seeds indoors (from February 25th to March 11th), starting Petunia seeds indoors (from February 25th to March 11th), and starting Pansy seeds indoors (from February 25th to March 11th).
March
In March, recommended activities include starting Broccoli seeds indoors (from March 11th to March 25th), starting Cauliflower seeds indoors (from March 11th to March 25th), and starting Oregano seeds indoors (from March 11th to March 25th).
April
In April, recommended activities include direct sowing Chervil (from April 8th to April 22nd), direct sowing Sweet Pea (from April 8th to April 22nd), and direct sowing Lettuce (from April 8th to April 22nd).
May
In May, recommended activities include direct sowing Moss Rose (from May 13th to May 27th), direct sowing Nasturtium (from May 13th to May 20th), and direct sowing Chia (from May 20th to June 3rd).