When to Plant Potatoes in Rhode Island
In Rhode Island, the time to plant potatoes outside runs from Mar 17 – Mar 31 in Newport to Apr 1 – Apr 15 in Pawtucket. In Providence, it's Mar 21 – Apr 4. The average last spring frost differs by about 2 weeks across the state (Apr 7 in Newport, Apr 22 in Pawtucket), so use the dates for the town nearest you.
Plant seed potatoes a few weeks before the last frost; cover any shoots if a late frost threatens.
- Plant outside: 1–3 weeks before the last frost.
Potatoes planting dates in Rhode Island by city
| City | Zone | Plant outside |
|---|---|---|
| Central Falls | 7a | Apr 1 – Apr 15 |
| Cranston | 7a | Mar 21 – Apr 4 |
| East Providence | 7a | Mar 21 – Apr 4 |
| Newport | 7a | Mar 17 – Mar 31 |
| Pawtucket | 7a | Apr 1 – Apr 15 |
| Providence | 7a | Mar 21 – Apr 4 |
| Warwick | 7a | Mar 21 – Apr 4 |
| Woonsocket | 6b | Apr 1 – Apr 15 |
Calculated from each town's average (50%) frost dates, from the nearest NOAA station (1991–2020). Typical dates for the 2027 planting season, based on NOAA's 1991–2020 averages. They are long-term odds, not a forecast: always check your local forecast before planting. Zones: 2023 USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map (USDA-ARS and Oregon State University). Not the official map; see planthardiness.ars.usda.gov.
See all frost dates in Rhode Island, or the general guide to when to plant potatoes.
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