When to Transplant Vegetable Seedlings in Arkansas

Timing of transplanting is important for Arkansas gardens.

Whether you have purchased seedlings from a nursery or grown your own, transplanting them at the right time is essential. The area of Arkansas in which you live and the vegetables you grow will determine when to put seedlings in the ground.

Frost Dates

Many young plants cannot survive a hard frost. The date of the last spring frost varies in Arkansas. The southernmost part of the state typically does not receive frost after March 20. In northern Arkansas, frost can occur as late as April 20.

Time Frame

Cool-season crops may be planted outside early. Lettuce, spinach, turnips, broccoli, cabbage and carrots may be transplanted between February and April. More tender crops, such as tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, beans and eggplant, should not be planted until April, or until all danger of frost has passed.

Considerations

While it is easier to purchase ready-to-transplant seedlings from a nursery, you may also choose to grow your own from seed. If you go this route, start your seeds in containers indoors about six weeks before you intend to transplant seedlings into the garden.

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