When should I plant Shepherd's Purse in Zone 5a?

Direct sow Shepherd's Purse outdoors around Mar 17. Harvest around May 1.

What is the last frost date for Zone 5a?

The average last spring frost date for Zone 5a is Apr 28. The first fall frost averages Oct 8, giving a 163-day growing season.

Can I grow Shepherd's Purse in Zone 5a?

Yes. Shepherd's Purse needs 45 days to harvest. Zone 5a has a 163-day growing season, which is sufficient.

Growing Shepherd's Purse in Zone 5a

Zone 5a has cold winters and a moderate growing season. Timing is key for Shepherd's Purse in this zone. Last frost: Apr 28. First frost: Oct 8.

Planting Calendar

Outdoor

Harvest

Mar 17Oct 8

Season: Apr 28 – Oct 8 (163 days)

Zone5a

Last FrostApr 28

First FrostOct 8

Season Length163 days

Days to Harvest45

Sunfull-to-part

Frost ToleranceHeavy

Spacing16/sqft (3" apart)

When to Plant Shepherd's Purse in Zone 5a

Sow Seeds Outdoors: Mar 17

Direct sow Shepherd's Purse seeds outdoors around Mar 17. Soil temperature should be at least 35°F. Space at 16/sqft (3" apart).

Harvest: May 1

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

Fall Planting: Aug 13

For a fall harvest, plant Shepherd's Purse around Aug 13 (8 weeks before first frost).

Shepherd's Purse in Other Zones

1a 1b 2a 2b 3a 3b 4a 4b 5a 5b 6a 6b 7a 7b 8a 8b 9a 9b 10a 10b 11a 11b 12a 12b 13a 13b

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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