When to Start Spring Planting in Wichita

Wichita, Kansas endures cold winters that prevent gardeners from working the soil until March. As long as there's not frost in the soil, container-grown perennials and woody plants can be planted any time. Planting times for annual flowers and vegetables vary by type.

Different plant species tolerate different levels of cold and frost. Dormant perennials and woody plants transplant well and will begin growing later in spring as weather appropriately warms. Some annuals like pansies and snapdragons appreciate cool early spring conditions in Wichita, as do cool-season veggies like spinach and lettuce. Frost-tender plants like tomato, corn, bean and most annual flowers must be planted after threat of spring frost.

The average last spring frost date in Wichita is between April 11 and 20. Plant cool-season flowers and veggies outdoors anytime from March 10 onward, but plant warm-season (frost intolerant) flowers and crops after April 20. Warm-season crops perform best when the soil warms above 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

Experienced gardeners sow seeds indoors before the conditions outdoors are suitable for veggies or flowers. Count back 4 to 6 weeks before the anticipated time in spring to plant outdoors and sow the seeds to sprout into little plants; then transplant these seedlings outdoors. For example, sow tomato or pepper seeds indoors 6 weeks before the last spring frost date

For more information on gardening in Kansas, the Kansas Garden Guide is made available from Kansas State University. Click on the link HERE to find out how to get your guide today!