Gardening is a skill that requires a keen eye, knowledge of the land, and a little creativity. Every region has its own peak growing season, and soil conditions can vary immensely from place to place.

Because of this, you need to familiarize yourself with common gardening practices and what grows best where you live.

In general, the American growing season is the span of time between the last frost of the year and the first frost of the year—which will differ by region. There are eleven recognized growing zones in the continental US; however, these can be more easily separated into the following regions:

• Northeast. The last frost of the year typically happens in May for most of the Northeast, while the first frost occurs toward the end of October. Because of this, it’s best to plant flowers in late March or early April. Most fruits and vegetables will do well if planted in late April to early May.

• Carolina lupine (Thermopsis villosa) is a native Northeast plant that grows well when given full sun and well-drained soil.

• Southeast. With mild temperatures lasting throughout the fall and winter, the average frost season in the Southeast is only about two months, from mid-December to early February. Begin planting outdoors as early as late February, and enjoy a lengthy growing season.

• Midwest. Weather in the Midwest can range from very hot and dry in the summer to cool and wet in the winter, though the average first and last frost dates are similar to the Northeast. Most fruits, vegetables, and flowers will thrive if planting begins late in April or early May.

• Yellow Pear, Jet Star, Black Cherry, and Early Girl are just a few varieties of tomato that flourish in the Midwest.

• Southwest. The aridness of the Southwest makes it difficult to grow a wide variety of plants, but there are certain fruits, vegetables, and flowers that will thrive under these conditions. In these cases, it’s best to plant during the fall months—specifically, in late September or early October.

• Northwest. A pronounced rainy season and cooler temperatures throughout the year mean a later start to the growing season for much of the Northwest. Planting should begin between mid-May and early June for most fruits and vegetables, though flowers will do well if planted earlier in April.

• Asparagus is great for spring harvest in the Northwest climate.

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