Planting Calendar for Zone 4: What to Grow and When

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Gardening in Zone 4 can be rewarding with the right planning. Understanding the planting calendar helps you maximize your garden’s productivity and ensure your plants thrive. Zone 4 experiences cold winters and a short growing season, typically from late April to early October.

Understanding Zone 4

Zone 4 is defined by the USDA Plant Hardiness Map. It has an average minimum winter temperature of -30 to -20°F (-34 to -29°C). This climate influences the timing of planting and the types of plants suitable for your garden.

Starting Your Garden Planning

Effective planning involves knowing when to start seeds indoors, when to transplant outdoors, and the optimal times for direct sowing. Keep a planting calendar to track these dates each year.

Indoor Seed Starting

Begin seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost date, which is typically around April 15 in Zone 4. Common early starters include tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants.

Transplanting Outdoors

Transplant seedlings outdoors after the danger of frost has passed, usually around late May. Harden off plants by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions over a week.

Vegetables to Plant and When

Early Spring (April)

  • Peas
  • Radishes
  • Spinach
  • Lettuce
  • Carrots

Late Spring to Early Summer (May-June)

  • Tomatoes
  • Peppers
  • Cucumbers
  • Zucchini
  • Green beans

Mid to Late Summer (July-August)

  • Sweet corn
  • Eggplants
  • Okra
  • Winter squash
  • Herbs (basil, cilantro)

Fruit and Other Crops

Many fruits can be grown successfully in Zone 4 with proper planning. Fruit trees like apples, cherries, and plums should be planted in early spring or fall. Berries such as strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries can be planted in spring.

When to Plant

  • Strawberries: early spring or fall
  • Apple trees: early spring
  • Raspberry canes: early spring
  • Grapes: late spring

Additional Tips for Zone 4 Gardeners

Use cold frames and row covers to extend your growing season. Select hardy plant varieties suited for colder climates. Keep a detailed garden journal to improve your planting calendar each year.

With careful planning and timely planting, your Zone 4 garden can produce a bountiful harvest. Happy gardening!