Zone 1b is one of the coldest planting zones in the United States, slightly warmer than Zone 1a, with winter temperatures ranging between -60°F and -50°F (-51.1°C to -45.6°C).
Areas like the outer parts of Alaska’s Arctic regions fall within this zone, offering a brief growing season from early June to late August.
While the growing season is short, it’s a bit more forgiving than Zone 1a, and gardeners can successfully grow cold-hardy vegetables by using greenhouses, frost guards, and other methods to extend the growing season.
Best Vegetables to Grow in Zone 1b
Cold-hardy vegetables are essential for the short growing season in Zone 1b. These crops can handle frost and mature quickly enough to be harvested before the cold returns.
- Broccoli: Thrives in low temperatures and can be planted early in the season. See more about planting broccoli.
- Cabbage: A hardy vegetable that grows quickly, making it ideal for short seasons.
- Radishes: Fast-growing root vegetables perfect for cool weather, ready for harvest in a few weeks.
- Brussels Sprouts: Slow-growing but very cold-hardy, making them perfect for late-season harvesting.
- Chives: Easy to grow and tolerates low temperatures well.
- Dill: Can be direct-sown once frost has passed and thrives in cold climates.
- Kale: One of the most cold-tolerant crops, capable of surviving light frost. Learn more about planting kale.
- Lettuce: A fast-growing, cold-tolerant crop, perfect for the short growing season.
Optimal Planting Dates
| Vegetable | Planting Indoors | Transplant Outdoors | Direct Sow Outdoors | Harvest Period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Broccoli | Early March | Early June | Not Recommended | Late July – September |
| Cabbage | Early March | Early June | Not Recommended | Late July – September |
| Radishes | N/A | N/A | Early June | July – August |
| Brussels Sprouts | Early March | Early June | Not Recommended | Late July – September |
| Chives | Mid-March | Early June | Not Recommended | Late July – September |
| Dill | N/A | N/A | Early June | July – August |
| Kale | Early March | Early June | Not Recommended | Late July – September |
Starting seeds indoors and transplanting them at the right time gives your plants the best chance to mature during the short summer months.
Using Mulch for Better Results
Mulch helps protecting plants from the cold and conserving moisture. By covering the soil with organic mulch, such as straw or leaves, you can insulate plant roots, keeping them warmer during cold nights. This extra warmth extends the growing period, making a big difference in the short season.
Mulch also helps retain moisture by reducing evaporation. This is crucial in raised beds or containers, where the soil dries out faster. Mulch further suppresses weeds, so your plants don’t have to compete for water and nutrients.
As mulch decomposes, it improves soil fertility. Choose mulch based on your needs—straw, leaves, or compost are great options. In windy areas, secure mulch with stones or heavier materials like bark chips to prevent it from blowing away.
Extending the Season
In Zone 1b, extending the growing season is essential to maximize your harvest. Here are some practical ways to do so:
- Use greenhouses or cold frames: These help get an early start in spring and continue growing into the fall. Greenhouses are more expensive but provide more control over temperature and humidity, while cold frames are a more affordable option.
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- Frost guards: Protect plants from sudden frosts, but consider the ongoing electricity costs if used frequently.
- Windbreaks: Install barriers like burlap or temporary fencing to protect crops from cold winds, reducing stress on plants.
- Raised beds or containers: These warm up faster in spring and hold heat longer in fall. Containers can also be moved to sunnier spots.
I'm passionate about cultivating greens in all forms: from kitchen garden to fruit and berry trees. I am also enthusiastic
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