Zone 3 – Vegetable Planting Calendar Guide

Zone 3 is the coldest of all the USDA plant hardiness zones in the United States. This zone has the shortest growing window for gardening.

In Zone 3, the average last frost date is around May 15th and the average first frost date is around September 15th. However, these frost dates can vary by a week or two, so it's important to pay attention to local weather forecasts before planting.

The annual minimum temperature for Zone 3 is -30°F [-34.4°C] (USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map).

Due to the short growing season and potential for frost outside of the main growing window, careful planning and selection of short-season, cold-tolerant vegetables and flowers is important for successful gardening in Zone 3.

Zone 3 Hardiness Dates

Last Frost Date- May 15th

First Frost Date- September 15th

Zone 3 Planting Schedule

The ZONE 3 PLANTING SCHEDULE below will help you get the most out of your garden. Starting seeds indoors before your last frost date will give you a jump start on the growing season. Knowing when to transplant seedlings outdoors based on the ZONE 3 PLANTING SCHEDULE will help