Ultimate Guide: Seed Starting Dates & Tips for Windsor Ontario Gardeners
- garantgreens
- 5 days ago
- 9 min read
Starting a garden can feel both thrilling and overwhelming. For Windsor, Ontario gardeners, grasping the local climate and frost dates is vital for success. This guide provides detailed insights into seed starting dates, recommended crops, and essential tips for a thriving garden.
When to Start Seeds in Windsor, Ontario
In Windsor, the gardening season generally kicks off in early spring. The last frost usually occurs from mid to late May, making it essential to plan your seed starting dates accordingly.
General Seed Starting Timeline
Cool Season Crops: Start indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost, roughly from late February to early March. For example, if you plant lettuce, expect germination in about 7 to 14 days.
Warm Season Crops: Begin these seeds indoors 4 to 6 weeks before the last frost, ideally from late March to early April. Tomatoes, which can take 5 to 10 days to germinate, thrive when started indoors.
Direct Seeding: Many crops can be sown directly into the ground after the last frost, typically from late May onward. Carrots can be direct-seeded in late May for a summer harvest.
Planting Dates for Spring
Planting Dates for Spring (Click on Crop Variety to access information page)
On average, your last spring frost occurs on April 28 (at WINDSOR A, ON climate station, elevation 620 feet). | ||||
Crop | Based on Frost Dates Based on Moon Dates | |||
Start Seeds Indoors | Plant Seedlings or Transplants | Start Seeds Outdoors | Last Date to Plant | |
Mar 2-17 Mar 2-14 | Apr 7-21 Apr 7-12 | Mar 31-Apr 7 Mar 31-Apr 7 | Sep 20 | |
N/A | N/A | Apr 14-28 Apr 14-26 | Apr 28 | |
Mar 17-31 Mar 29-31 | May 12-26 May 12 | May 12-26 May 12 | Sep 6 | |
N/A | Apr 14-28 Apr 14-26 | Mar 31-Apr 7 | May 12 | |
Feb 16-Mar 2 Feb 27-Mar 2 | May 12-19 May 12 | N/A | Jul 26 | |
Mar 17-31 Mar 29-31 | May 12-19 May 12 | May 12-19 May 12 | Jun 9 | |
Mar 2-17 Mar 2-14 | Apr 14-28 Apr 27-28 | Mar 31-Apr 7 Mar 31-Apr 7 | Aug 16 | |
Mar 17-31 Mar 29-31 | Apr 14-28 Apr 27-28 | Mar 31-Apr 7 Mar 31-Apr 7 | Jul 12 | |
Mar 2-17 Mar 2-14 | Apr 14-28 Apr 27-28 | Mar 31-Apr 7 Mar 31-Apr 7 | May 5 | |
Apr 7-21 Apr 7-12 | Apr 28-May 12 Apr 28-May 12 | May 5-12 May 5-12 | Jul 12 | |
N/A | N/A | Mar 31-Apr 14 Apr 13-14 | Aug 9 | |
Mar 17-31 Mar 29-31 | Apr 21-May 5 Apr 27-May 5 | N/A | Aug 2 | |
Feb 2-16 Feb 2-12 | May 5-19 May 5-12 | Apr 28 Apr 28 | Aug 9 | |
Mar 2-17 Mar 2-14 | Apr 7-14 Apr 7-12 | Apr 7-14 Apr 7-12 | Aug 23 | |
N/A | N/A | Apr 28-May 12 Apr 28-May 12 | May 19 | |
Mar 17-31 Mar 29-31 | Apr 14-28 Apr 27-28 | Apr 7-14 Apr 7-12 | Aug 9 | |
Apr 7-14 Apr 7-12 | May 5-19 May 5-12 | May 12-19 May 12 | Aug 9 | |
N/A | N/A | Apr 21-May 12 Apr 27-May 12 | Aug 23 | |
N/A | N/A | May 12-19 May 12 | Jul 12 | |
Mar 2-17 Mar 2-14 | May 12-19 May 12 | N/A | Aug 9 | |
N/A | N/A | Mar 31-Apr 7 Mar 31-Apr 7 | May 12 | |
Mar 17-31 Mar 29-31 | May 5-12 May 5-12 | Apr 28-May 12 Apr 28-May 12 | Aug 2 | |
N/A | N/A | May 5-26 May 5-12, May 26 | Aug 9 | |
Apr 7-14 Apr 7-12 | May 12-19 May 12 | May 12-19 May 12 | Jul 19 | |
Feb 16-Mar 2 Feb 27-Mar 2 | May 12-19 May 12 | N/A | ||
Mar 2-17 Mar 2-14 | Apr 14-28 Apr 27-28 | Mar 31-Apr 7 Mar 31-Apr 7 | May 12 | |
Mar 17-31 Mar 29-31 | Apr 7-14 Apr 7-12 | Mar 31-Apr 7 Mar 31-Apr 7 | May 12 | |
Feb 16-Mar 2 Feb 27-Mar 2 | Apr 7-21 Apr 7-12 | N/A | Jul 5 | |
Mar 17-31 Mar 29-31 | Apr 7-14 Apr 7-12 | Mar 31-Apr 7 Mar 31-Apr 7 | May 12 | |
N/A | N/A | N/A | ||
N/A | N/A | N/A | ||
Mar 31-Apr 14 Mar 31-Apr 12 | May 12-19 May 12 | May 12-26 May 12 | Aug 9 | |
Feb 2-Mar 2 Feb 13-26 | Mar 31-Apr 14 Apr 13-14 | N/A | Jul 12 | |
Feb 16-Mar 17 Feb 27-Mar 14 | May 5-19 May 5-12 | N/A | Aug 9 | |
Feb 16-Mar 2 Feb 27-Mar 2 | May 5-19 May 5-12 | Mar 31-May 5 Mar 31-Apr 12, Apr 27-May 5 | Aug 2 | |
N/A | N/A | Mar 31-Apr 7 | Jul 12 | |
N/A | N/A | May 19-Jun 2 May 19-25 | ||
N/A | N/A | Mar 31-Apr 7 Mar 31-Apr 7 | May 12 | |
N/A | N/A | Mar 31-Apr 14 Apr 13-14 | Aug 9 | |
Apr 7-21 Apr 7-12 | May 12-19 May 12 | May 12-19 May 12 | Jul 5 | |
N/A | N/A | Mar 31-Apr 7 | Aug 23 | |
Feb 2-16 Feb 2-12 | May 12-19 May 12 | N/A | Aug 23 | |
Mar 2-17 Mar 2-14 | May 5-19 May 5-12 | N/A | Aug 2 | |
N/A | N/A | Mar 31-Apr 14 Apr 13-14 | Jul 12 | |
Mar 17-31 Mar 29-31 | Apr 7-14 Apr 7-12 | Mar 31-Apr 7 Mar 31-Apr 7 | May 12 | |
N/A | N/A | May 12-26 May 12 | Aug 2 | |
N/A | N/A | May 12-26 May 13-25 | Jul 5 | |
Mar 17-31 Mar 29-31 | Apr 14-28 Apr 27-28 | Apr 7-28 Apr 7-12, Apr 27-28 | May 12 | |
Feb 16-Mar 2 Feb 27-Mar 2 | May 5-12 May 5-12 | N/A | Jul 26 | |
Mar 17-31 Mar 29-31 | May 12-26 May 12 | N/A | Aug 2 | |
Mar 2-17 Mar 2-14 | May 12-19 May 12 | N/A | Jul 19 | |
N/A | N/A | Mar 31-Apr 7 | Sep 20 | |
Apr 7-21 Apr 7-12 | May 12-19 May 12 | May 5-12 May 5-12 | Jul 19 | |
Apr 7-14 Apr 7-12 | May 5-19 May 5-12 | May 12-19 May 12 | Jun 28 | |
Apr 7-14 Apr 7-12 | May 5-19 May 5-12 | May 12-19 May 12 | Aug 16 |
What Plants Are Better Started from Seed?
Certain plants do particularly well when started from seed, allowing gardeners to diversify their gardens.
Vegetables: Peppers, eggplants, and zucchini are excellent candidates for indoor starting. For instance, peppers require a warm environment and can take 7 to 14 days to sprout.
Flowers: Many annuals like cosmos and zinnias benefit from starting indoors, giving them a jumpstart on the growing season.
Herbs: Basil, cilantro, and parsley can be easily grown from seeds indoors. Planting basil indoors can yield fresh herbs within 10 to 14 days.
What Plants Should Be Started Indoors and Transplanted Outside?
Certain plants excel when started indoors and then transplanted. These include:
Tomatoes: These require a longer growing season and benefit from an indoor start. A single tomato plant can yield 10 to 15 pounds of fruit in a season.
Peppers: Similar to tomatoes, they require warmth and a longer growing period.
Cabbage and Broccoli: Both are cool-season crops that can be started indoors and later transplanted outdoors.
What Plants Should Be Direct Seeded?
Some crops prefer to be directly seeded into the garden. These include:
Beans: These seeds are fast germinators, sprouting in 7 to 14 days.
Carrots: They grow best when sown directly, as transplanting can disturb their roots.
Radishes: These produce quick yields and can be sown directly, typically maturing within 3 to 4 weeks.
What Conditions Are Best to Sow Seeds in the Spring?
For effective seed sowing, keep these conditions in mind:
Soil Temperature: Most seeds thrive in temperatures between 65°F and 75°F (18°C to 24°C). Use a soil thermometer to check.
Moisture: Maintain consistently moist soil without overwatering, as soggy soil can rot seeds.
Sunlight: Select locations with good sunlight since most seedlings require at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
What Are Cool Season Crops and When Is the Cool Season?
Cool season crops flourish in cooler temperatures and are planted in early spring and late summer. They tolerate light frosts and include:
Lettuce
Spinach
Peas
Arugula
The cool season typically occurs in early spring, from March to April, and again in the fall, from September to October.
What Are Warm Season Crops and When Is the Warm Season?
Warm season crops thrive in hot conditions and cannot handle frost. These include:
Tomatoes
Corn
Beans
The warm season usually starts after the last frost in late May and extends through late summer (June to August).
What Are Disease Resistant Varieties?
Disease-resistant varieties are specially bred to endure certain diseases, minimizing crop failure rates. These varieties help:
Reduce chemical use: Gardeners can rely less on pesticides and fungicides, promoting a healthier environment.
Boost yields: Healthier plants outperform sick plants, often yielding 20 to 30% more produce.
What Does Non-GMO Mean?
Non-GMO (Genetically Modified Organism) seeds are those unaffected by lab modifications. These seeds appeal to gardeners who prefer traditional methods, cultivating crops without technological interference.
What Is an Heirloom Seed?
Heirloom seeds are traditional varieties passed down over generations. These open-pollinated seeds can be replanted each year, preserving genetic variety. Heirloom tomatoes, for example, can introduce unique flavors and colors, enriching the garden.
What Is a Hybrid Seed?
Hybrid seeds come from the deliberate cross-pollination of two distinct plants. They often produce high yields but may not create fertile seeds for future planting. Thus, gardeners focused on sustainability often prefer heirloom seeds due to their reliable reproductive capabilities.
How Do I Prepare a Seed Bed to Properly Sow Seeds?
Preparing a proper seed bed boosts your plant's growth. Follow these steps for success:
Clear the area: Remove weeds, rocks, and debris to give seeds a clean start.
Loosen the soil: Use a gardening fork or tiller to aerate the top 12 inches of soil.
Enrich the soil: Mix in compost or organic matter to enhance fertility and structure.
Level the bed: Rake until smooth, allowing for even germination.
Water well: Moisten the seed bed thoroughly before sowing seeds.
How Do I Store Seeds for Next Year?
Proper seed storage extends seed life and ensures germination. Here are key storage tips:
Keep them cool: Use a refrigerator or a cool, dark place like a basement or cold room to maintain seed viability.
Seal tightly: Store seeds in airtight containers like Mason Jars to keep moisture out.
Label clearly: Mark containers with the seed type and date planted for easy access later.
What Seeds Should I Plant in Summer for Fall Harvest?
During summer, consider these seeds for a successful fall harvest:
Kale: Thrives in cool weather and is ideally sown from mid-July to early August.
Turnips: Plant in late July to early August for a late fall crop that can withstand frost.
Spinach: This can be sown in late summer for a fall yield, typically ready for harvest within 6 weeks.
Planting Dates for Fall (Click on Crop Variety to access information page)
On average, your first fall frost occurs on October 18 (at WINDSOR A, ON climate station). | |||||
Crop | Based on Frost Dates Based on Moon Dates | ||||
Start Seeds Outdoors | Transplant | Average Days to Maturity | Frost Tolerance | ||
Aug 30-Oct 4 Aug 30-Sep 7, Sep 21-Oct 4 | N/A | 40 | Frost-hardy | ||
Jul 26-Aug 23 Aug 10-22 | N/A | 50 | Frost-tolerant | ||
Aug 9-30 Aug 9, Aug 24-30 | N/A | 50 | Frost-tolerant | ||
Jul 19-26 Jul 24-26 | Aug 9-23 Aug 9 | 60 | Frost-tolerant | ||
Jun 28-Jul 12 Jun 28-Jul 10 | N/A | 100 | Frost-hardy | ||
Jul 19-26 Jul 24-26 | Aug 9-16 Aug 9 | 90 | Frost-tolerant | ||
Aug 2-9 | N/A | 70 | Frost-tolerant | ||
Jul 12-19 | Jul 26-Aug 2 Jul 26-Aug 2 | 75 | Frost-tolerant | ||
Jul 26-Aug 23 Jul 26-Aug 9, Aug 23 | N/A | 70 | Frost-tolerant | ||
Jul 19-Aug 2 Jul 24-Aug 2 | N/A | 80 | Tender | ||
Nov 1-14 Nov 6-14 | N/A | 120 | Frost-hardy | ||
Aug 2-16 Aug 2-9 | N/A | 55 | Tender | ||
Aug 9-23 Aug 9 | N/A | 60 | Frost-hardy | ||
Aug 16-Sep 6 Aug 23-Sep 6 | N/A | 45 | Frost-tolerant | ||
Aug 9-23 Aug 9 | N/A | 60 | Frost-tolerant | ||
Aug 16-Sep 6 Aug 23-Sep 6 | N/A | 45 | Tender | ||
Aug 9-23 Aug 9 | N/A | 55 | Tender | ||
Sep 6-20 Sep 8-20 | N/A | 25 | Frost-tolerant | ||
Aug 30-Sep 20 Aug 30-Sep 7 | N/A | 30 | Frost-hardy | ||
Aug 9-23 Aug 9 | N/A | 60 | Frost-tolerant | ||
Aug 16-30 Aug 16-22 | N/A | 50 | Frost-tolerant |
What is Succession Planting?
Succession planting involves sowing seeds at regular intervals to ensure a consistent harvest. For example, planting carrots every two weeks can yield fresh produce throughout the growing season. This method keeps your garden producing without overwhelming you at harvest time.
When Is My Last Frost in Windsor Essex County, Ontario?
In Windsor Essex County, the last frost generally occurs mid to late May. Keep a close eye on local weather forecasts as the frost date approaches, allowing you to protect tender seedlings at risk of being damaged.
When Is the First Fall Frost Usually Expected in Windsor, Ontario?
Typically, the first fall frost in Windsor is seen in late October. This knowledge allows gardeners to optimize their planting and harvesting schedules, ensuring crops mature before harsh frost hits.
Final Thoughts
Starting seeds successfully in Windsor and beyond hinges on grasping local conditions, planning carefully for frost, and choosing the right seeds. With this expanded guide, you now have the information needed to prepare for your garden's success. Whether you choose heirloom, non-GMO, or hybrid seeds, embracing gardening brings joy and fresh produce into your life. Happy planting!
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