Question 1

When should I plant lettuce in ZIP 28202?

Accepted Answer

In ZIP 28202, the main lettuce target is around Mar 22, based on the representative Charlotte frost station and USDA zone 8a.

Question 2

When should I start lettuce seeds indoors in 28202?

Accepted Answer

Start lettuce seeds indoors in ZIP 28202 around Mar 8, about 28 days before the Apr 5 last-frost estimate.

Question 3

When is the last frost in Charlotte?

Accepted Answer

Charlotte (ZIP 28202) has an average last spring frost around Apr 5, based on the representative Charlotte frost station.

Question 4

When is the first frost in Charlotte?

Accepted Answer

Charlotte (ZIP 28202) has an average first fall frost around Nov 5, leaving about 214 frost-free days.

Question 5

Is this a guaranteed planting date?

Accepted Answer

No. GrowZone uses frost-date estimates, hardiness zones, and crop timing rules for planning. Local microclimates and current weather can shift the right date.

Step	Date	How to use it
Start Indoors	March 8, 2026	Start seeds under lights or in a bright indoor seed-starting space.
Transplant Outdoors	March 22, 2026	Move hardened-off seedlings outside after the frost-risk window.
Direct Sow	March 22, 2026	Sow seed outside when the crop and soil can handle the window.

Start lettuce seeds indoors around Mar 8

Lettuce dates for Charlotte, NC