Wisconsin Planting Guide & Growing Season
Wisconsin is in USDA hardiness zone 3b-5b with a growing season of 150 days. The average last spring frost is May 5 and the average first fall frost is Sep 30.
Growing Conditions in Wisconsin
How Wisconsin Compares
Compare Wisconsin's growing conditions with states that have similar climates.
| State | USDA Zone | Last Frost | First Frost | Season (days) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wisconsin (WI) | 3b-5b | May 5 | Sep 30 | 150 |
| Alabama (AL) | 7a-8b | Mar 15 | Nov 5 | 235 |
| Alaska (AK) | 1a-7b | May 30 | Sep 5 | 100 |
| Arizona (AZ) | 4b-10b | Mar 1 | Nov 15 | 260 |
| Arkansas (AR) | 6b-8a | Apr 1 | Oct 25 | 210 |
| California (CA) | 4b-11a | Feb 15 | Nov 30 | 290 |
Frequently Asked Questions About Gardening in Wisconsin
When should I start seeds indoors in Wisconsin?
In Wisconsin, the average last frost date is May 5. Start most seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before this date. The USDA hardiness zone for Wisconsin is 3b-5b, with a growing season of approximately 150 days.
What USDA hardiness zone is Wisconsin?
Wisconsin falls in USDA hardiness zones 3b-5b. This affects which perennial plants will survive winter and influences optimal planting times.
When is the first frost in Wisconsin?
The average first frost date in Wisconsin is Sep 30. Plan to harvest cold-sensitive crops before this date or protect them with row covers.
How long is the growing season in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin has an average growing season of 150 days, from the last frost (May 5) to first frost (Sep 30). This shorter season requires starting many crops indoors and choosing quick-maturing varieties.
Plan Your Garden
Use our seed starting calculator to get personalized planting dates, or browse all states.