When to Start Planting Flowers Outside: A Regional Guide

Choosing the right time to start planting flowers outside is crucial for the success of your garden. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the best planting times for various regions in the United States, along with practical tips for different types of plants.

Spring Planting: Regional Guidelines

Spring is the ideal time to start planting flowers, and the exact timing will vary depending on your geographical location. For the United States, the planting window typically ranges from early March to mid-April, but this can vary significantly from region to region.

Eastern Region

For the eastern states, the best time to start planting flowers is mid-to-late March. This period allows for the ground to warm up enough for seeds to germinate and young plants to thrive.

Southern Region

The southern states are generally warmer, so you can begin planting as early as late February to mid-March. However, it is crucial to monitor the weather and avoid planting too early, as a sudden cold snap can damage your plants.

Northern Region

In the northern states, spring planting should begin around mid-April. This timing helps ensure that the ground is sufficiently warm and that the risk of frost is lower, making it safer to sow seeds and transplant young plants.

Fall Planting: Considerations

For fall planting, which is ideal for certain types of plants, the best time to start is in September. Plants benefit from the cooler temperatures and increased moisture levels during this period, which helps root systems develop over the winter.

Regional Variations

For the southern, west, and east regions, September is a good time to start planting, but for areas with milder climates or irrigation facilities, you can extend this period into late October. However, in colder regions, it is generally advisable to plant earlier, around mid- to late September, to give the plants time to settle in before the cold season.

Considerations for Fruit and Shade Trees

Fruit trees and shade trees, as well as other plantation crops like cocoa and coffee, should be planted during the rainy season, specifically in July, August, and September. During these months, deep roots can penetrate the soil, and the plants can grow robustly. This ensures that they have enough moisture and nutrients to establish strong root systems, which are essential for long-term health and productivity.

General Planting Tips

The type of plant you are planting will also influence when it is best to plant. Hardy flowers can be sown as soon as the soil can be worked, even if it is a few weeks before the last frost. For half-hardy flowers, it is advisable to wait until a couple of weeks before the final frost. Tender flowers should only be planted when there is no chance of frost for the rest of the season.

Bedding Plants, Perennials, and Trees

Bedding plants, such as those purchased in trays at garden centers, are typically not frost-tolerant. Perennials and shrubs, including trees, can generally withstand cold weather and can be planted at any time of year, provided there is no frost. Summer bulbs and roses also benefit from planting in very cold weather.

Consider Your Local Climate

While these guidelines provide a general framework, it is important to consider your specific local climate. For instance, if you live in New Hampshire, it is advisable to check the last frost dates and wait a few days beyond that for optimal planting. The last frost date in Hanover, NH, is usually between June 1 and June 10. Therefore, starting around June 13 would be a good idea, or check your local forecast for optimal planting.

Conclusion

The best time to start planting flowers outside depends on several factors, including regional climate, plant type, and local frost dates. By following these guidelines and considering your specific circumstances, you can ensure that your gardening efforts yield the best results. Happy planting!