When to plant peas
Short answer
Plant peas about 5 weeks before your last spring frost. In a mid climate (zone 5) that's around Mar 11. Enter your ZIP for your exact dates.
| Climate zone | Start indoors | Plant outside | Harvest |
|---|---|---|---|
| Zone 1 | — | Jan 1 | Feb 9 |
| Zone 2 | — | Jan 11 | Mar 12 |
| Zone 3 | — | Feb 3 | Apr 4 |
| Zone 4 | — | Feb 23 | Apr 24 |
| Zone 5 | — | Mar 11 | May 10 |
| Zone 6 | — | Mar 26 | May 25 |
| Zone 7 | — | Apr 10 | Jun 9 |
| Zone 8 | — | Apr 27 | Jun 26 |
Higher climate-zone numbers are colder, so planting shifts later. Peas is a hardy crop. Enter your ZIP in the calculator for your exact zone and dates.
Your exact dates
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Frequently asked questions
When should I plant peas?
Sow peas directly about 5 weeks before your last spring frost — it tolerates cold. In a warmer zone 4 that's around Feb 23; in a colder zone 6, Mar 26.
Can I direct sow peas?
Yes — peas is usually sown directly in the garden rather than started indoors.
How long until peas is ready to harvest?
About 60 days from transplant or sowing. In zone 6, plants set out around Mar 26 are typically ready near May 25.