North Carolina Planting Guide & Growing Season
North Carolina is in USDA hardiness zone with a growing season of 215 days. The average last spring frost is Mar 15 - Apr 15 and the average first fall frost is Oct 15 - Nov 10.
Growing Conditions in North Carolina
How North Carolina Compares
Compare North Carolina's growing conditions with states that have similar climates.
| State | USDA Zone | Last Frost | First Frost | Season (days) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina (NC) | Mar 15 - Apr 15 | Oct 15 - Nov 10 | 215 | |
| 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 North Carolina
When should I start seeds indoors in North Carolina?
In North Carolina, the average last frost date is Mar 15 - Apr 15. Start most seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before this date. The USDA hardiness zone for North Carolina is undefined, with a growing season of approximately 215 days.
What USDA hardiness zone is North Carolina?
North Carolina 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 North Carolina?
The average first frost date in North Carolina is Oct 15 - Nov 10. Plan to harvest cold-sensitive crops before this date or protect them with row covers.
How long is the growing season in North Carolina?
North Carolina has an average growing season of 215 days, from the last frost (Mar 15 - Apr 15) to first frost (Oct 15 - Nov 10). This long season supports warm-season crops like tomatoes, peppers, and melons.
Plan Your Garden
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