Why these dates work in zone 3b
Zone 3b's last spring frost averages May 6 and first fall frost Oct 22 — about 169 frost-free days. Spinach tolerates light frost, so you can sow ahead of the last-frost date and keep harvesting into the cooler fall. There's also room for a fall succession sowing around Aug 27 for a second harvest before frost.
Common questions
How long does spinach take to grow in zone 3b?
Spinach matures in about 37–50 days from sowing. In zone 3b that means sowing around Apr 8 and first picking around May 15.
Will spinach survive frost in zone 3b?
Yes — spinach tolerates light frost. In zone 3b you can sow a little before the last frost (around May 6) and keep harvesting past the first fall frost (around Oct 22).
Can I plant a second crop of spinach in zone 3b?
Yes — in zone 3b there's time for a fall sowing around Aug 27 for a second harvest before frost.
For soil, spacing, pests and companion planting, see the full spinach growing guide →