When to Plant Sweet Potatoes in Maine
In a typical Maine location, plant outdoors May 16 – May 30. Across the state, the outdoor planting window starts as early as May 9 in Lewiston and as late as May 30 in Sanford.
Set out slips 2-4 weeks after last frost once soil is thoroughly warm (65F+); very frost/cold sensitive.
Sweet Potatoes Planting Dates by City
| City | Plant outdoors |
|---|---|
| Portland | May 10 – May 24 |
| Lewiston | May 9 – May 23 |
| Bangor | May 18 – Jun 1 |
| West Scarborough | May 10 – May 24 |
| South Portland | May 10 – May 24 |
| South Portland Gardens | May 10 – May 24 |
| Auburn | May 9 – May 23 |
| Biddeford | May 23 – Jun 6 |
| Sanford | May 30 – Jun 13 |
| Saco | May 23 – Jun 6 |
| Augusta | May 11 – May 25 |
| Westbrook | May 10 – May 24 |
| Waterville | May 16 – May 30 |
| Brunswick | May 16 – May 30 |
| York Beach | May 15 – May 29 |
| Wells Beach Station | May 23 – Jun 6 |
| Orono | May 15 – May 29 |
| Lisbon | May 29 – Jun 12 |
| North Bath | May 24 – Jun 7 |
| Brewer | May 18 – Jun 1 |
| Presque Isle | May 28 – Jun 11 |
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 sweet potatoes in Maine?
In a typical Maine location, plant outdoors May 16 – May 30. Across the state, the outdoor planting window starts as early as May 9 in Lewiston and as late as May 30 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 sweet potatoes take to grow?
Sweet Potatoes typically take 90–120 days from planting to harvest. Set out slips 2-4 weeks after last frost once soil is thoroughly warm (65F+); very frost/cold sensitive.
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
- Potatoes
- Asparagus
- Basil
- Cilantro
- Parsley
- Dill
- Oregano
- Thyme
- Sunflowers
- Zinnias
- Marigolds
- Cosmos
- Nasturtiums
- Dahlias
When to plant sweet potatoes in other states