When to Plant: A Seasonal Guide for Annuals, Perennials, Trees, and Bulbs

Soil conditions and weather forecast are more helpful than a calendar for determining planting times. Trees and shrubs are forgiving, but annual flowers, vegetables, and some perennials are particular and reward timely planting with bountiful produce and blooms.

continue reading below

When to Plant Annuals and Vegetables

Plant tomatoes outside after your area's frost-free date. The first warm sunny day after winter might tempt you, but soil temperature is likely still too cool. In cool soil, warm-season seeds and transplants merely survive; extended damp, cool conditions bring problems. For most North Americans, spring planting occurs between late February and late May.

Plant cool-season vegetables and flowering annuals before the last frost date. They thrive once soil reaches ~40°F and is fairly dry. Plant warm-season crops outdoors about two weeks after the last average frost.

Climate provides exceptions. In South Florida, plant warm-season tomatoes in fall for spring harvest. Match crop needs to your natural climate and weather cycles.

A Note About Seed Packets

Seed packets provide planting time, spacing, depth, mature size, and days to maturity. "Days to maturity" helps for fall crops: e.g., plant spinach in late summer for September/October harvest before killing freeze.

When to Plant Perennials

Perennials thrive when planted in spring. Early to mid-spring gives several weeks for root expansion before summer heat. Spring moisture encourages root growth. Also optimal time to dig and divide: as soon as soil can be worked, dig overgrown perennials, divide root balls, replant immediately, water well. They'll overcome division stress and thrive.

Late summer is also good for perennials. Check average first frost date; plant ~8 weeks before. Plants establish roots and prepare for winter. Water frequently—moisture often scarce in late summer/fall.

When to Plant Trees and Shrubs

Like perennials, trees and shrubs thrive when planted in early spring. Water regularly through first growing season for strong roots. Most shrubs are resilient and grow well when planted in summer/early fall if watered regularly. Research shows trees do best planted in spring or fall—mild temps and moisture aid long-term survival. Get more tips for planting trees and shrubs.

When to Plant Bulbs

Spring-blooming bulbs (tulips, daffodils, hyacinths) planted as soil cools in fall—September/October common. Learn more about planting spring bulbs.

Summer-blooming bulbs (lilies, alliums) planted in early spring. They'll bloom the following summer and for years. Discover top summer-blooming bulbs.

How to Plant Perennials

How to Plant Perennials