When to Start Planting in Northwest Arkansas?

Timing is essential to a healthy garden in Arkansas.

Northwest Arkansas is the coolest part of the state, and this means that gardeners in this region must wait longer to plant than growers elsewhere in the state. You can still grow a wide range of vegetables in Northwest Arkansas and a garden planted at the right time is much more likely to thrive.

Considerations

Arkansas has been divided into frost zones by the University of Arkansas. The northwest corner of the state lies in zones C, D and E. This means that the last freeze of spring occurs between April 1 and April 20, depending on where in the region you live.

Types

Hardy vegetables -- these include cabbage, broccoli, potatoes, carrots, cauliflower and others -- can be planted soonest because they are resistant to frost damage. More tender vegetables like tomatoes, peppers, squash and melons must be planted later because they can be severely damaged or killed by frost.

Time Frame

You can start planting hardy vegetables as early as February, though it would be safer to wait until March. Tender plants should not be planted until April or May, or whenever the last frost of the year is behind you in your part of Northwest Arkansas.

References

• University of Arkansas: Year-Round Home Garden Planting Guide
• University of Arkansas: Planting Guide for Spring and Summer Production
• University of Arkansas: Gardening Calendars