Seasonal TipsWhen to Plant Annuals (Frost Timing Guide)
Head of Operations · April 4, 2026
Getting your timing right is one of the biggest factors in success with annuals. Plant too early, and a late frost can wipe things out. Plant too late, and you miss valuable growing time.
Know Your Last Frost Date
In most of Indiana, the average last frost falls between late April to early May. That means the safe planting window for most annuals is early to mid-May.
A good rule of thumb: Wait until Mother’s Day to plant tender annuals outside.
Cool vs Warm Season Annuals
Not all annuals are the same—some can handle cooler temps better than others.
Cool-Tolerant Annuals (Plant Earlier)
Pansies, Viola, Alyssum, Osteospermum — can often go out in April, but still watch for hard freezes.
Warm-Season Annuals (Wait!)
Petunias, Geraniums, Impatiens, Begonias, Calibrachoa — these should wait until consistent nighttime temps are above 50°F.
Soil Temperature Matters Too
Even if air temps feel warm, cold soil can slow growth or damage plants. Plants establish faster when soil is warming and roots aren’t sitting cold and wet.
Indiana Reality
Spring in Indiana is unpredictable: 75° one day, 40° the next. That’s why waiting just a little longer reduces risk, helps plants establish faster, and leads to better long-term performance.
Hoosier Tip
If you’re itching to plant early, start with cold-tolerant plants or containers you can move. For everything else, waiting an extra week or two will almost always pay off.
Reference: Purdue University Extension — Indiana gardening resources
