The quick answer is now, depending on the vegetable.   Cornell Cooperative Extension of Oneida County’s Master Gardener, Gretchen Mero says we're a couple of weeks behind because of extended cold temperatures and abundant snow.

Gretchen says, "Most gardeners will start pepper and eggplant around April 1st and tomatoes on April 15th."

Vegetable seeds are planted according to the length of weeks it takes to grow to a transplanting size. Lettuce, and Cole crops (Broccoli, Kale, cabbages) are early choices for the cool spring months, and are a natural choice for early planting dates. Tomatoes, pepper plants and eggplants take a longer time to grow for planting outside after frost free date. Gardeners start those plants at the same time, knowing the later plants can’t be planted as early as the ones that can endure frosts.

Cornell offers a Horticulture Hotline that can answer any questions related to gardening on Wednesday’s & Friday’s from 9am to noon.  Call 736-3394 and ask to speak to a Master Gardener.

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