Seed Starting Calendar
Estimate when to start seeds indoors based on your last frost date and the number of weeks before transplanting.
Calculate seed starting date
Enter your expected last frost date and how many weeks before that you want to start seeds indoors.
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Enter your frost date and weeks before frost to calculate your seed starting date.
Tips for success
- Different crops have different recommended starting windows.
- Peppers and tomatoes often need more lead time than fast-growing greens.
- Your local frost date is only an estimate, not a guarantee.
- Use this as a planning guide, then adjust for your climate and growing setup.
- Succession planting can extend your harvest window.
Useful for vegetables, herbs, greenhouse planning, seed tray timing, and self-sufficient food-growing schedules.
How to use this calculator
Enter your local last frost date and how many weeks before that date you want to start seeds indoors. The calculator subtracts the selected number of weeks to estimate your starting date.
Common mistakes
- Using the wrong last frost date for your location.
- Starting all crops on the same date even though they have different timing needs.
- Ignoring transplant shock or local spring temperature swings.
- Assuming frost dates are exact every year.
- Starting seeds too early and ending up with oversized plants indoors.
FAQ
What is a last frost date?
It is the approximate date in spring after which frost becomes unlikely in your area.
Can I use this for all crops?
Yes, but you should use the proper recommended number of weeks for each crop type.
Should I trust the date exactly?
No. Treat it as a strong planning guide rather than a guarantee, since weather can vary year to year.
Can I use this for direct sowing?
This tool is mainly for indoor seed starting before transplanting, not direct sowing outside.