What to plant this week in Zone 1b
With average last frost dates around June 10 and the first frost arriving by August 20, your Zone 1b garden is currently in deep winter dormancy with no active planting or harvesting windows. Focus on planning your spring schedule and protecting structures against extreme sub-zero temperatures.
In the ground
Sow this week
No direct sowing windows open this week.
Move out
Transplant this week
Nothing is due to go out this week.
Coming ripe
Harvest soon
No harvest windows opening just yet.
Do this now
Seasonal tips
- Prepare beds for early spring sowing by clearing debris and adding compost to improve soil structure before the thaw.
- Inspect cold frames, row covers, and greenhouses for damage from winter winds and prepare them for immediate use once soil thaws.
- Start indoor seedlings of cool-weather crops like lettuce or peas in late April to ensure a strong start after the June 10 frost date passes.
- Test soil pH and nutrient levels during this quiet period so amendments are ready when spring gardening begins.
Keep watch
Pest & disease watch
- Monitor for winter damage on evergreens that may be stressed by extreme cold snaps dropping below -55°F.
- Check stored seeds and equipment for rodent activity or moisture issues before the next growing season.
- Clear fallen leaves and plant debris to prevent early fungal spores from settling as temperatures begin to rise.
Water
Watering this week
Hold off on watering outdoor beds until the ground has fully thawed and drainage is established to avoid waterlogging frozen soil.
One more thing
Use this downtime to order high-quality seeds and tools so you are ready to act immediately when the weather permits sowing after mid-June.