Maine Planting Guide & Growing Season
Maine is in USDA hardiness zone with a growing season of 140 days. The average last spring frost is May 1 - Jun 1 and the average first fall frost is Sep 15 - Oct 15.
Growing Conditions in Maine
How Maine Compares
Compare Maine's growing conditions with states that have similar climates.
| State | USDA Zone | Last Frost | First Frost | Season (days) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maine (ME) | May 1 - Jun 1 | Sep 15 - Oct 15 | 140 | |
| Alabama (AL) | Mar 1 - Apr 1 | Oct 25 - Nov 15 | 220 | |
| Alaska (AK) | May 15 - Jun 15 | Aug 15 - Sep 15 | 105 | |
| Arizona (AZ) | Feb 1 - Apr 15 | Oct 15 - Dec 15 | 270 | |
| Arkansas (AR) | Mar 15 - Apr 15 | Oct 15 - Nov 1 | 210 | |
| California (CA) | Jan 15 - Apr 15 | Oct 15 - Dec 31 | 290 |
Frequently Asked Questions About Gardening in Maine
When should I start seeds indoors in Maine?
In Maine, the average last frost date is May 1 - Jun 1. Start most seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before this date. The USDA hardiness zone for Maine is undefined, with a growing season of approximately 140 days.
What USDA hardiness zone is Maine?
Maine falls in USDA hardiness zones undefined. This affects which perennial plants will survive winter and influences optimal planting times.
When is the first frost in Maine?
The average first frost date in Maine is Sep 15 - Oct 15. Plan to harvest cold-sensitive crops before this date or protect them with row covers.
How long is the growing season in Maine?
Maine has an average growing season of 140 days, from the last frost (May 1 - Jun 1) to first frost (Sep 15 - Oct 15). This shorter season requires starting many crops indoors and choosing quick-maturing varieties.
Plan Your Garden
Use our seed starting calculator to get personalized planting dates, or browse all states.