When to Plant Potatoes in Maine
In a typical Maine location, sow outdoors Apr 4 – Apr 18. Across the state, the outdoor planting window starts as early as Mar 28 in Lewiston and as late as Apr 18 in Sanford.
Plant seed potatoes 2-4 weeks before last frost, as soon as soil can be worked and is above 45F; light frost on emerging foliage is usually tolerated.
Potatoes Planting Dates by City
| City | Direct sow |
|---|---|
| Portland | Mar 29 – Apr 12 |
| Lewiston | Mar 28 – Apr 11 |
| Bangor | Apr 6 – Apr 20 |
| West Scarborough | Mar 29 – Apr 12 |
| South Portland | Mar 29 – Apr 12 |
| South Portland Gardens | Mar 29 – Apr 12 |
| Auburn | Mar 28 – Apr 11 |
| Biddeford | Apr 11 – Apr 25 |
| Sanford | Apr 18 – May 2 |
| Saco | Apr 11 – Apr 25 |
| Augusta | Mar 30 – Apr 13 |
| Westbrook | Mar 29 – Apr 12 |
| Waterville | Apr 4 – Apr 18 |
| Brunswick | Apr 4 – Apr 18 |
| York Beach | Apr 3 – Apr 17 |
| Wells Beach Station | Apr 11 – Apr 25 |
| Orono | Apr 3 – Apr 17 |
| Lisbon | Apr 17 – May 1 |
| North Bath | Apr 12 – Apr 26 |
| Brewer | Apr 6 – Apr 20 |
| Presque Isle | Apr 16 – Apr 30 |
Showing the 21 most populous of 21 Maine cities. Dates are estimates from each city's NOAA frost normals and university extension timing guidelines. See all Maine cities.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant potatoes in Maine?
In a typical Maine location, sow outdoors Apr 4 – Apr 18. Across the state, the outdoor planting window starts as early as Mar 28 in Lewiston and as late as Apr 18 in Sanford.
When is the last frost in Maine?
The average last spring frost in Maine ranges from April 25 in Lewiston to May 16 in Sanford, based on NOAA 1991–2020 climate normals.
How long do potatoes take to grow?
Potatoes typically take 70–120 days from planting to harvest. Plant seed potatoes 2-4 weeks before last frost, as soon as soil can be worked and is above 45F; light frost on emerging foliage is usually tolerated.
Other Crops in Maine
- Tomatoes
- Peppers
- Eggplant
- Cucumbers
- Zucchini
- Winter Squash
- Pumpkins
- Watermelon
- Cantaloupe
- Corn
- Green Beans
- Peas
- Lettuce
- Spinach
- Kale
- Arugula
- Swiss Chard
- Broccoli
- Cauliflower
- Cabbage
- Brussels Sprouts
- Carrots
- Beets
- Radishes
- Turnips
- Onions
- Garlic
- Sweet Potatoes
- Asparagus
- Basil
- Cilantro
- Parsley
- Dill
- Oregano
- Thyme
- Sunflowers
- Zinnias
- Marigolds
- Cosmos
- Nasturtiums
- Dahlias
When to plant potatoes in other states