Zone 5 includes large parts of the U.S., such as Alaska, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Illinois, Nebraska, and parts of New York. The growing season lasts from late April to early October, providing five to six months for cultivation. Choosing the right crops and extending the season with greenhouses or cold frames will maximize your harvest.
Recomended planting dates for vegetables in zone 5
| Vegetable | Planting Indoors | Transplant Outdoors | Direct Sow Outdoors | Harvest Period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Broccoli | Mid-February | Late March | Early April | June – September |
| Cabbage | Mid-February | Late March | Early April | June – September |
| Radishes | N/A | N/A | Mid-March | April – July |
| Carrots | N/A | N/A | Mid-March | June – September |
| Kale | Mid-February | Late March | Early April | June – September |
| Spinach | Mid-March | Late March | Early April | June – September |
The last frost typically occurs in late April, with the first frost around early October. Root vegetables such as carrots and radishes can be sown directly into the ground after the last frost.
Here are some planting guides for plants that grows well in Zone 5:
The Importance of Good Soil
Before starting to grow, it’s smart to consider the condition of the soil in your garden. The best soil is a blend of mineral-rich dirt and organic matter. In my garden, I compost as much as possible to enrich the soil with nutrients. I use both hot composting for food scraps and cold composting for organic garden waste.
If you don’t have the time or space to compost, you can purchase compost from garden centers or take advantage of community composting programs. Learn more about community composting here.
Hot Composting
Hot composting is an efficient way to break down organic matter, even in colder climates. One insulated compost bin designed for cold regions is the Exaco Aerobin 400. It holds 113 gallons and doesn’t need turning thanks to its patented “lung” system. Plus, the built-in reservoir collects compost tea, which can be used as fertilizer.
The Exaco Aerobin 400 is available for $343.79. Check the latest price on Amazon.
Watering
In the summer months its important to keep plants hydrated. Using an oscillating sprinkler is an easy solution. Place the sprinkler in the center of your vegetable garden, and water early in the morning when the temperatures are lower. This allows the water to penetrate deep into the soil before it can evaporate in the heat.
Check out oscillating sprinklers from Amazon here
Using Mulch
Mulch protects the soil by regulating temperature and retaining moisture. Organic mulch like straw or compost insulates the soil and keeps roots warmer, which is especially important in spring and fall.
Mulch also helps retain moisture by reducing evaporation, which means less time watering and less stress on plants. It is especially helpful in raised beds and containers where soil dries out faster. Additionally, mulch controls weeds, stopping them from competing with your vegetables for nutrients.
The Sun Joe CJ603E Wood Chipper is an affordable and effective option for creating mulch from branches up to 1.7 inches thick. It’s available for $199. Check the latest price on Amazon.
States that fall in under Zone 5
| State | Region |
|---|---|
| Alaska | Southern coastal regions |
| Colorado | Parts |
| Idaho | Parts |
| Illinois | Northern regions |
| Indiana | Northern regions |
| Iowa | Central and northern regions |
| Kansas | Northern parts |
| Maine | Inland areas |
| Massachusetts | Inland areas |
| Michigan | Parts, especially central |
| Minnesota | Most areas |
| Missouri | Northern parts |
| Montana | Western parts |
| Nebraska | Eastern parts |
| New Hampshire | Inland areas |
| New York | Inland and northern parts |
| Ohio | Northern parts |
| Oregon | Eastern parts |
| Pennsylvania | Northern and central parts |
| South Dakota | Eastern parts |
| Utah | Northern regions |
| Vermont | Most areas |
| Washington | Eastern parts |
| West Virginia | Higher elevations |
| Wisconsin | Most areas |
| Wyoming | Central parts |
I'm passionate about cultivating greens in all forms: from kitchen garden to fruit and berry trees. I am also enthusiastic
about creating high-quality soil by utilizing household compost. View Author page
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