Plant your annuals, vegetables, and perennials after the danger of frost has past, according to your hardiness zone. Pennsylvania has several hardiness “zones.” The best way to find out which one you are in is to contact your county extension office or to visit http://www.usna.usda.gov/Hardzone/hzm-ne1.html

Equally as important, talk to your neighbors who are gardeners to find out when they plant their annuals and vegetables. Sometimes, even if your geographical area is in a particular hardiness zone, there can be “microclimates,” or pockets that are warmer or cooler than your designated zone. Talking to others in your immediate area can help you to determine this.