5 Plants You Can Safely Grow in New York Right Now (Even Before the Last Frost)
Spring is finally here in New York, and if you’re itching to start planting, you’re not alone.
The good news is—you don’t have to wait until mid-May to get your hands dirty.
Even before the last frost hits (typically around May 10–15 in our area), there are several cold-hardy plants that can handle chilly nights and still thrive. If you start with the right picks, you can enjoy a beautiful and productive garden weeks earlier.
1. Pansies
Pansies are one of the toughest early bloomers you can plant. These vibrant flowers actually prefer cooler temperatures and can bounce back even after a light frost.
Why they’re perfect now:
- Thrive in temperatures as low as the 40s
- Add instant color to beds, pots, and hanging baskets
- Easy to care for, even for beginners
Pro tip: Deadhead spent blooms to keep them flowering longer.
2. Snapdragons
Snapdragons bring height and texture to your garden—and they don’t mind the cold one bit. In fact, they often perform better in cooler weather than in peak summer heat.
Why they’re perfect now:
- Tolerate light frost
- Bloom early and keep going through spring
- Great for layering in flower beds
Pro tip: Plant them in clusters for a fuller, more dramatic look.
3. Lettuce
If you want quick results, lettuce is one of the easiest crops to grow right now. It loves cool weather and grows fast.
Why it’s perfect now:
- Germinates in cooler soil
- Ready to harvest in just a few weeks
- Perfect for containers or garden beds
Pro tip: Plant in succession every 1–2 weeks for a continuous harvest.
4. Kale
Kale is one of the most cold-tolerant vegetables out there. In fact, a light frost can actually make it taste sweeter.
Why it’s perfect now:
- Extremely frost-hardy
- Nutrient-packed and productive
- Low maintenance once established
Pro tip: Harvest outer leaves first to keep the plant producing.
5. Herbs (Parsley, Cilantro, Chives)
Not all herbs need warm weather to thrive. Parsley, cilantro, and chives are great early-season options that can handle cooler temperatures.
Why they’re perfect now:
- Grow well in containers or garden beds
- Add fresh flavor to your meals
- Easy to maintain
Pro tip: Keep them near your kitchen for quick, everyday use.
Ready to Start Planting?
Just because it’s early spring doesn’t mean you have to wait. With the right plants, you can start building a beautiful, thriving garden right now—without worrying about the cold.
If you’re not sure where to begin, stop by Kent Countryside. Our greenhouse is already stocked with cold-hardy plants that are ready for your garden today.
Come see what’s growing—you might be surprised how much you can plant this early.