Cultivating herbs offers both culinary satisfaction and the pleasure of nurturing plants. Successfully growing herbs in Virginia depends entirely on timing your planting to the state’s diverse and often unpredictable climate. Virginia’s geography creates a wide range of microclimates, meaning a single planting date will not work across the Commonwealth. Gardeners must identify their local environmental conditions to create a calendar that ensures their herbs thrive.
Navigating Virginia’s USDA Zones and Frost Dates
Virginia covers a significant range of the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map, which determines a plant’s ability to survive winter minimum temperatures. Zones span from the colder 6a and 6b in the mountainous western regions to the milder 8a and 8b along the coastal Tidewater area. This difference directly influences the average last spring frost date, the most important factor for spring planting.
In warmer southeastern areas, the last expected frost can occur as early as the first week of April. Conversely, those in higher elevations or western valleys may not see the risk of frost pass until late April or mid-May. The frost date marks the beginning of the outdoor planting season, as the probability of temperatures dipping below 32°F becomes low. While historical data provides these averages, local conditions can shift these dates, making it necessary to determine the specific average last frost date for your exact location.
Planting Schedules for Hardy Herbs
Hardy culinary herbs tolerate the cooler temperatures of early spring and can handle a light frost. These herbs benefit from an early start, allowing them to establish robust root systems before the heat of summer arrives. Planting should generally occur four to six weeks prior to the average last spring frost date for your specific zone.
Chives can be planted from transplants as soon as the soil is workable, often in late February or early March. Parsley also tolerates cool soil and can be direct-sown or transplanted during this early spring window. Cilantro and Dill thrive in this cool-season slot, as they quickly bolt when temperatures rise. Direct sowing seeds for both provides the best results, as they often resent transplanting. Planting these varieties early allows for a substantial harvest before the intense Virginia summer heat.
Planting Schedules for Tender Herbs
Tender herbs originate from warmer climates, have zero tolerance for frost, and require thoroughly warmed soil before planting. These warm-season varieties must wait until after the average last spring frost date has passed. Nighttime low temperatures should consistently stay above 50°F, which typically falls between late April and mid-May for most of Virginia.
Basil is highly sensitive to cold and should only be planted once the soil temperature reaches at least 60°F to 70°F. Planting too early causes stunted growth and yellowing leaves. Rosemary, Oregano, and Marjoram are heat-loving Mediterranean herbs that should be set out during this same late spring period. Using transplants for Basil, Rosemary, and Marjoram is the preferred method to ensure rapid establishment and a quicker harvest. Mint, which is vigorous once established, should also be planted from divisions or transplants in the late spring.