Shepherd's Purse illustration

Growing Shepherd's Purse in Zone 4a

Zone 4a has cold winters and a moderate growing season. Timing is key for Shepherd's Purse in this zone. Last frost: May 5. First frost: Oct 1.

Planting Calendar

Outdoor
Harvest
Mar 24Oct 1

Season: May 5 – Oct 1 (149 days)

Zone4a
Last FrostMay 5
First FrostOct 1
Season Length149 days
Days to Harvest45
Sunfull-to-part
Frost ToleranceHeavy
Spacing16/sqft (3" apart)

When to Plant Shepherd's Purse in Zone 4a

Sow Seeds Outdoors: Mar 24

Direct sow Shepherd's Purse seeds outdoors around Mar 24. Soil temperature should be at least 35°F. Space at 16/sqft (3" apart).

Harvest: May 8

First harvest approximately May 8 (~45 days from planting). Continue harvesting until first frost (Oct 1). Shepherd's Purse can overwinter in mild climates for continued harvest.

Fall Planting: Aug 6

For a fall harvest, plant Shepherd's Purse around Aug 6 (8 weeks before first frost).

Plan Your Shepherd's Purse Garden

Track Shepherd's Purse from seed to harvest with personalized frost dates, watering recommendations, and companion planting visualization.

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