When to Plant Sweet Corn in Rhode Island
In Rhode Island, the time to sow sweet corn outside runs from Apr 14 – Apr 28 in Newport to Apr 29 – May 13 in Pawtucket. In Providence, it's Apr 18 – May 2. 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.
Sow corn in blocks rather than single rows so it pollinates well. Wait for soil around 60°F.
- Sow outside: 1–3 weeks after the last frost.
Sweet Corn planting dates in Rhode Island by city
| City | Zone | Sow outside |
|---|---|---|
| Central Falls | 7a | Apr 29 – May 13 |
| Cranston | 7a | Apr 18 – May 2 |
| East Providence | 7a | Apr 18 – May 2 |
| Newport | 7a | Apr 14 – Apr 28 |
| Pawtucket | 7a | Apr 29 – May 13 |
| Providence | 7a | Apr 18 – May 2 |
| Warwick | 7a | Apr 18 – May 2 |
| Woonsocket | 6b | Apr 29 – May 13 |
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 sweet corn.
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