Cape Cod is generally classified as being in USDA Plant Hardiness Zone 7a. This means the average annual minimum winter temperature in this region is approximately 0°F to 5°F (-18°C to -15°C). However, microclimates can exist within Cape Cod, so it's essential to consider local conditions and factors such as proximity to water bodies, elevation, and urban heat islands when planning your garden.
The spring planting schedule on Cape Cod, like any other region, can vary depending on factors such as weather patterns, soil conditions, and the specific plants you intend to grow. However, here is a general guideline for planting various types of crops and flowers in the spring on Cape Cod:
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Early Spring (March-April):
- Cold-hardy vegetables: Start planting cold-hardy vegetables such as peas, spinach, lettuce, kale, broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, and radishes as soon as the soil can be worked.
- Perennials: Divide and replant perennials early in spring before they start actively growing.
- Cool-season annual flowers: Plant cool-season annuals such as pansies, violas, and snapdragons for early spring color.
- Fruit trees and bushes: Plant bare-root fruit trees and bushes like apples, cherries, peaches, and blueberries before they break dormancy.
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Mid-Spring (April-May):
- Warm-season vegetables: Once the danger of frost has passed, usually around mid to late May on Cape Cod, plant warm-season vegetables such as tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, squash, beans, and corn.
- Herbs: Plant herbs like basil, cilantro, dill, parsley, and chives once the soil has warmed up.
- Annual flowers: Sow seeds or transplant annual flowers like marigolds, zinnias, cosmos, and sunflowers after the last frost date.
- Bulbs: If you didn't plant bulbs in the fall, you can still plant some spring-blooming bulbs like dahlias and gladiolus in mid-spring.
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Late Spring (May-June):
- Warm-season annuals: Plant warm-season annual flowers such as petunias, impatiens, begonias, and geraniums for summer color.
- Summer bulbs: Plant bulbs like cannas, caladiums, and elephant ears for summer interest.
- Vines and climbers: Plant vines and climbers such as morning glories, clematis, and climbing roses.
- Perennials: Continue planting and transplanting perennials throughout late spring.
Happy Spring , enjoy your gardening!
