When to Plant in Wichita, KS

In Wichita, the median last spring frost date falls on April 12, while the first fall frost is typically on October 22. This gives a favorable growing season with approximately 193 frost-free days, allowing for a wide variety of gardening opportunities. Gardeners can take advantage of these dates to schedule planting and harvesting effectively, ensuring a productive garden throughout the warmer months.

Wichita falls within the humid continental Great Plains microclimate, which significantly influences gardening choices. Crops such as tomatoes, peppers, and sweet corn thrive due to the warm summers and ample moisture during the growing season. However, crops like artichokes and certain types of tropical fruits tend to struggle here, largely due to the region's cold winter temperatures and short growing season, which are less conducive to their growth.

What to plant now in Wichita

Spring: Start planting cool-season crops like kale and lettuce from late March until early April, ensuring they're ready for harvest before the April 12 frost date.
Summer: Mid-May is ideal for warm-season crops such as tomatoes and peppers, allowing them to mature after the frost danger has passed.
Fall: As summer ends, plant fall crops such as spinach and radishes in late September to ensure they establish before the October 22 frost.
Winter: Use this time to plan your spring garden layout, start indoor seedlings in December, preparing for planting after the last frost around April 12.

In Wichita (193 frost-free days, a long season), 30 of 56 planner crops fit outright, 25 get two plantings, 1 crop is perennial.

Month by month in Wichita

Month	What to do
January	Use this winter month to plan your garden layout. Consider what crops you'll grow this year and order seeds. Maintain any necessary gardening tools to prepare for the upcoming season.
February	Begin gathering materials for seed starting, such as trays and soil. Research crop varieties suitable for the growing conditions after the last frost date of April 12.
March	Start seeds indoors for warm-season plants. Prepare garden beds outdoors as the soil begins to thaw, but remain vigilant for late frost risks until around April 12.
April	As the last frost date of April 12 approaches, it's crucial to plant hardy cool-season crops now. Ensure tender plants aren’t exposed to frost by covering them with cloth if still at risk.
May	May is the perfect month for transplanting warm-season crops such as tomatoes and peppers. Enjoy the progression towards warmer weather, as frost is no longer a threat after April 12.
June	Continue caring for your established crops in June. Water regularly, weed diligently, and monitor for pests and disease as plants take off during the robust growing season.
July	July brings plenty of heat, perfect for maturing crops. Keep up with pest management and water your plants deeply to sustain them during this dry period.
August	In August, focus on harvesting early crops. This month is also an ideal time to start thinking about fall planting, preparing for the upcoming transition towards cooler temperatures.
September	With the arrival of cooler weather, September is the time to plant quick-maturing crops like radishes and spinach, ensuring you have a harvest before the first fall frost on October 22.
October	As the first fall frost date approaches on October 22, make final harvests of warm-season crops while continuing to care for fall plantings, making sure they are covered during chilly nights.
November	November marks the end of the growing season. Clear out spent plants and prepare your garden beds for winter by adding mulch or compost to improve soil for next spring.
December	In December, take a break from gardening but start planning for the upcoming year. Review your past gardening successes and failures to inform your strategies for planting after April 12.

Frost dates for Wichita ZIP codes

ZIP	Last spring frost (50%)	First fall frost (50%)	Zone
67212	April 12	October 22	7a
67214	April 12	October 22	7a
67235	April 12	October 26	7a
67227	April 11	October 26	7a

FAQ

When is the last frost in Wichita?

The last average frost date in Wichita is April 12, which is an important date for gardeners to consider when planning their spring planting.

What vegetables grow best in Wichita?

Tomatoes, peppers, and corn thrive in the Wichita climate, benefiting from the heat and moisture, while artichokes struggle due to colder temperatures.

When should I plant tomatoes in Wichita?

Tomatoes should be planted in mid-May, after the last frost date of April 12, ensuring they have a full growing season.

Can I garden year-round in Wichita?

Gardening year-round in Wichita is challenging due to cold winters. However, indoor gardening and winter preparations can extend your gardening experience.

How does Plan My Garden help Wichita gardeners?

Plan My Garden offers seasonal planting calendars tailored for Wichita's climate, helping gardeners select the right plants based on local frost dates.