Local conditions control
Weather, elevation, city heat, slope, drainage, soil, pests and seed variety can change results within the same ZIP Code or USDA Zone. Check the current forecast and your garden's actual conditions.
Zones are not planting calendars
A USDA Zone describes how cold winter usually gets. It does not provide your last spring frost, summer heat, rainfall or the day to move vegetables outdoors.
Calculator limits
The seed calculator counts backward from an outdoor planting date you choose. It cannot choose that date for you; first check local frost, the crop's temperature needs, the forecast and the seed packet.
No affiliation
Zone Garden is independent and is not affiliated with or endorsed by USDA, NOAA, the U.S. Census Bureau or any university named as a source.