Maryland Weather

• By early to mid-May, most regions in Maryland have had their final frost of the year, according to the University of Maryland Extension. However, these dates vary widely based on location. While Baltimore's final frost typically occurs around April 11, Oakland gardeners may not be able to count on frost-free weather until June 5. Check the predictions for your area, monitor weather reports and take into consideration elevation, wind and proximity to buildings and water that also affect local temperatures. Some areas of the same location may receive frost while others don't.
  
  

Direct Sowing

• When starting seed directly into the garden, first learn the hardiness of the plant or how well it withstands cold and frost. Some plants, like lettuce and onions, thrive in cooler weather. Others, like tomatoes, die if exposed to frost. The seed packet should provide information about when to plant based on the final frost date.
  
  

Starting Seeds Indoors

• If you want to start seeds indoors and then transplant them to your garden, you will also need to know the final frost date. This will help you plan when to start the seeds so that by the last frost date your seedlings are a healthy size for transplanting. When choosing a transplant date, consider the plant's hardiness and plan a date based on the typical weather in your area.