USDA Zone 3
Cold winters, a very short summer. Cool-season crops and fast warm-season varieties.
Climate Overview
What to expect
- Bitterly cold winters with deep, lasting snow
- A short frost-free window — roughly 90 to 120 days
- Last frost often late May to early June; first frost early September
- Warm-season crops need to be started indoors and chosen for speed
What Grows Well
Seeds To Stock
- Peas
- Kale
- Cabbage
- Broccoli
- Lettuce
- Spinach
- Carrots
- Beets
- Radishes
- Short-season beans
- Potatoes
- Onions
- Garlic
Direct Sow Suggestions
- Peas
- Spinach
- Lettuce
- Radishes
- Carrots
- Beets
- Kale (after thaw)
Tray Start Suggestions
- Tomatoes (short-season)
- Peppers
- Broccoli
- Cabbage
- Onions
- Lettuce
Monthly Planning
Current month is highlighted. Click any month to see the plan.
USDA Zone 3
JuneThis month
Plant Now
- Beans
- Summer squash
- Cucumbers
- Sunflowers
- Carrots
- Beets
Start In Trays
Nothing this month.
Harvest
- Spring greens
- Radishes
Prepare Next
- Transplant tomatoes with protection
- Succession-sow greens
Common Challenges
Watch out for
- Very short growing season
- Late spring and early fall frosts
- Cold soil delaying germination
- Choosing fast-maturing varieties
Near Anderson, Redding, or Red Bluff, California? Our local guides go a lot deeper than this zone overview.
What To Do Next
Turn zone knowledge into an actual planting plan.
Zone pages help with broad timing. The planner and growing tips list help you turn that timing into a season you can use.
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