Spring Planting Guide - Zone 7
Virginia, North Carolina, Tennessee, Oklahoma, Arkansas, New Mexico, Northern Arizona
Zone 7 Key Dates
Last Frost: Early to mid-April
Growing Season: ~200-220 days
First Fall Frost: Late October to early November
Early Spring (6-8 weeks before last frost)
Zone 7 spring comes early - start cool-season crops in February/March.
| Plant | Action | Timing | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Peas | Direct sow | 6-8 weeks before last frost | February in many areas |
| Spinach | Direct sow | 6-8 weeks before last frost | Bolts in heat, plant early |
| Lettuce | Direct sow or transplant | 4-6 weeks before last frost | Start succession planting |
| Potatoes | Plant seed potatoes | 4-6 weeks before last frost | St. Patrick's Day tradition |
| Brassicas | Transplant | 4-6 weeks before last frost | Broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower |
Mid Spring (Start Indoors)
Start warm-season crops indoors for transplanting after frost danger.
| Plant | Action | Timing | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tomatoes | Start seeds indoors | 6-8 weeks before last frost | February start |
| Peppers | Start seeds indoors | 8-10 weeks before last frost | January-February start |
| Eggplant | Start seeds indoors | 8-10 weeks before last frost | Needs warmth |
| Cucumbers | Start seeds indoors | 3-4 weeks before last frost | Or direct sow after frost |
| Herbs | Start seeds indoors | 4-6 weeks before last frost | Basil, parsley, cilantro |
After Last Frost
Once frost passes (mid-April), plant warm-season crops.
| Plant | Action | Timing | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beans | Direct sow | After last frost | Soil temps 60°F+ |
| Squash | Direct sow | 1 week after last frost | Summer and winter varieties |
| Corn | Direct sow | After last frost | Soil temps 65°F+ |
| Melons | Transplant or sow | 2 weeks after last frost | Zone 7 has long enough season |
| Okra | Direct sow | 2-3 weeks after last frost | Loves heat, soil 70°F+ |
Zone 7 Spring Tips
- Zone 7 is the sweet spot - long enough season for almost any vegetable
- Watch for unpredictable spring weather - late freezes can surprise you
- Cool-season crops may bolt quickly as temps warm - harvest early
- Consider heat-tolerant lettuce varieties for extended spring harvests
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the last frost in zone 7?
Zone 7 last frost dates typically range from early April to mid-April. Some areas may have frost into late April. Check your specific location and watch weather forecasts.
Can I plant tomatoes in April in zone 7?
Wait until after your last frost date in mid-April. Night temperatures should stay above 50°F consistently. Soil should be at least 60°F. Late April to early May is safest for most zone 7 locations.
What grows well in zone 7 spring?
Zone 7 has an excellent growing season for most vegetables. Tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, squash, beans, and corn all thrive. You can also grow longer-season crops like melons and sweet potatoes.