## When to Plant a Vegetable Garden in Vermont
Vermont’s climate is characterized by cold, snowy winters and warm, humid summers. The growing season is relatively short, with the first frost typically occurring in late September or early October. This means that it is important to plan your vegetable garden carefully in order to maximize your yield.
### Factors to Consider When Planting
When planning your vegetable garden, there are a few key factors to consider:
Hardiness Zone: Vermont is located in USDA Hardiness Zones 4-6. This means that the average minimum winter temperature ranges from -30 to -10 degrees Fahrenheit. When selecting plants for your garden, it is important to choose varieties that are hardy to your zone.
First and Last Frost Dates: The first frost date is the average date of the first killing frost in the fall. The last frost date is the average date of the last killing frost in the spring. In Vermont, the first frost date is typically in early October and the last frost date is typically in mid-May.
Seed Starting Date: The seed starting date is the date when you start seeds indoors. For most vegetables, it is recommended to start seeds 6-8 weeks before the last frost date. This will give the seedlings time to grow strong and healthy before they are transplanted outdoors.
Transplant Date: The transplant date is the date when you transplant seedlings outdoors. For most vegetables, it is recommended to transplant seedlings outdoors 2-3 weeks after the last frost date. This will give the seedlings time to acclimate to the outdoor environment before the hot summer weather arrives.
### Vegetable Planting Guide
The following table provides a general guide to when to plant vegetables in Vermont:
| Vegetable | Seed Starting Date | Transplant Date |
|—|—|—|
| Asparagus | Not applicable | Early spring |
| Beans | 2 weeks before last frost | 1 week after last frost |
| Broccoli | 6 weeks before last frost | 2 weeks after last frost |
| Brussels sprouts | 6 weeks before last frost | 2 weeks after last frost |
| Cabbage | 6 weeks before last frost | 2 weeks after last frost |
| Carrots | 2 weeks before last frost | As soon as soil can be worked |
| Cauliflower | 6 weeks before last frost | 2 weeks after last frost |
| Celery | 10 weeks before last frost | 6 weeks after last frost |
| Corn | 2 weeks after last frost | |
| Cucumbers | 3 weeks before last frost | 1 week after last frost |
| Eggplant | 8 weeks before last frost | 1 week after last frost |
| Kale | 4 weeks before last frost | As soon as soil can be worked |
| Lettuce | 4 weeks before last frost | As soon as soil can be worked |
| Onions | 4 weeks before last frost | As soon as soil can be worked |
| Peas | 2 weeks before last frost | As soon as soil can be worked |
| Peppers | 8 weeks before last frost | 1 week after last frost |
| Potatoes | 2 weeks before last frost | As soon as soil can be worked |
| Pumpkins | 3 weeks before last frost | 1 week after last frost |
| Radishes | 2 weeks before last frost | As soon as soil can be worked |
| Spinach | 4 weeks before last frost | As soon as soil can be worked |
| Squash | 3 weeks before last frost | 1 week after last frost |
| Tomatoes | 6 weeks before last frost | 1 week after last frost |
| Turnips | 4 weeks before last frost | As soon as soil can be worked |
### Additional Tips
Consider using a cold frame or greenhouse: This can help to extend the growing season by protecting plants from frost and cold temperatures.
Mulch around plants: Mulch helps to retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds.
Water plants regularly: Especially during hot, dry weather.
Fertilize plants: This will help to promote growth and production.
Be patient: It takes time for vegetables to grow. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t see results immediately.
With a little planning and care, you can grow a bountiful vegetable garden in Vermont.