When to Plant on Long Island in Spring

Annuals, Perennials, Trees and Shrubs

If you’re wondering when to plant on Long Island, you’re not alone. As temperatures start to warm up in March, many gardeners are eager to get outside and start planting. The good news? You can start planting now, but only certain plants thrive in early spring conditions. This Long Island planting guide will help you understand what to plant now, what to wait on, and how to avoid damage from late frost.

Understanding Spring Planting on Long Island

Spring weather on Long Island can be unpredictable. While daytime temperatures may feel warm, nighttime frost is still common.

  • Average last frost date on Long Island: mid-April
  • March weather: cool days and cold nights
  • Frost risk: still present

This is why knowing when to plant on Long Island in spring is so important for success.

A lush vegetable garden with rows of leafy greens and vibrant garden vegetables, including lettuce and other thriving plants, flourishes in rich soil. Green foliage is dense under natural light, suggesting a healthy growing environment thats perfect for herbs too.

Early Spring Lettuce Crop

Close-up of kale leaves with curly, textured edges. The leaves are green with purple veins, radiating outward from the center of the plant, displaying vibrant and healthy foliage.

Vibrant Cold Tolerant Kale

What to Plant in March on Long Island

If you’re looking for what to plant in March on Long Island, focus on cold-tolerant plants that can handle cooler temperatures.

Vegetables to Plant Now

  • Lettuce
  • Spinach
  • Kale
  • Broccoli
  • Cabbage
  • Peas
  • Radishes

These crops thrive in early spring and can tolerate light frost.

Purple Pansies

Spring Blooming Pansies

A vibrant assortment of primrose flowers in full bloom, displaying a variety of colors including red, yellow, purple, pink, and white, closely packed together with green leaves peeking through.

Colorful Early Spring Primrose

Flowers to Plant in Early Spring

  • Pansies
  • Violas
  • Primrose

These are perfect for adding color while temperatures are still cool.

Trees, Shrubs & Perennials

  • Trees
  • Shrubs
  • Perennials
  • Roses

Planting now allows roots to establish before summer heat.

A close-up of vibrant pink cherry blossoms on a tree branch with bright green leaves, set against a clear blue sky.

Kwanzan Cherry Tree

Close-up of pink hellebore flowers with yellow stamens, surrounded by green foliage and other similar blooms in a garden center setting.

Cold Tolerant Hellebores

What NOT to Plant Yet

Even if it feels like spring, it’s still too early for warm-weather plants. Avoid planting these until after the last frost date on Long Island:

  • Tomatoes
  • Peppers
  • Basil
  • Impatiens
  • Tender annual flowers

Planting too early can result in frost damage or plant loss.

How to Protect Plants from Late Frost

Since spring weather can change quickly, it’s important to protect your plants.

  • Use frost cloth or row covers
  • Cover plants overnight with sheets
  • Add mulch for insulation
  • Move containers indoors when temperatures drop

These simple steps can help prevent damage.

A row of freshly planted evergreen shrubs lines a mulched garden bed beside a grassy lawn, with a landscaping truck and trees in the background.

In-Season Arborvitae Planting By Hicks Nurseries

Planting Tomatoes in the Garden

Warm Weather Tomato Planting

When Is It Safe to Plant Everything

A common question is exactly when to plant on Long Island in spring for all plants.

Here’s a simple timeline:

  • March–Early April: Cold-tolerant plants
  • Mid–Late April: Gradual planting
  • May: Safe for all plants

Following this schedule helps ensure strong, healthy growth.

Final Thoughts: When to Plant on Long Island

So, when is the best time for spring planting on Long Island?

  • Start early with cold-hardy plants
  • Wait until after frost for tender plants
  • Use a planting timeline to guide your decisions

With the right approach, you can enjoy a successful and beautiful spring garden.

Get Ready for Spring Planting

Visit Hicks Nurseries for everything you need for spring planting on Long Island, including:

  • Cold-hardy plants
  • Soil and compost
  • Gardening tools
  • Expert advice

Start planting with confidence this season.

Additional Information:

How to Plant Guide

SHOP Online

Educational Resources