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When to Plant Cowpeas in Vermont

Cowpeas (black-eyed peas) are a heat-loving legume that fixes nitrogen in the soil. They are drought-tolerant and produce protein-rich pods in hot conditions.

Vermont spans USDA hardiness zones 5a (with planting data available), so planting dates vary by your location within the state. Click your zone below for the most accurate dates.

Find Your County

Click your county for exact Cowpeas planting dates based on your local frost dates.

Hover over a county to see details. Click to view planting guide.

Cowpeas Planting Calendar for Vermont

Zone 5a ~166 day growing season · Full guide →

Last frost: April 25 · First frost: October 8 · 166 day season

Activity When Date Range
Direct Sow May 2 May 2 – May 23
Harvest July 4 Jul 4 – Aug 15

Growing Tips for Vermont

Direct sow after soil is thoroughly warm. Do not over-fertilize with nitrogen as cowpeas fix their own. Harvest pods when they begin to dry on the vine for dry beans.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I plant Cowpeas in Vermont?

Planting dates for Cowpeas in Vermont depend on your USDA zone. Vermont spans zones 5a. Check the planting calendar above for your specific zone's frost dates and planting windows.

What zone is Vermont for planting?

Vermont contains USDA hardiness zones 5a. Your specific zone depends on your location within the state — northern and higher-elevation areas are in colder zones, while southern and coastal areas are warmer.

Data sources: USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map (2023), NOAA 30-Year Climate Normals, University Cooperative Extension planting guides. Last updated: April 2026.