Table of Contents

The best time to start a garden depends on your climate and the plants you want to grow. In most regions of the United States, early spring is ideal for planting cool-season crops like lettuce, peas, and broccoli. Warm-season crops like tomatoes, peppers, and squash should be planted after the last expected frost date in your area. Check the [USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map](https://planthardiness.ars.usda.gov/PHZMWeb/) to determine your growing zone and the recommended planting times for your region.