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When to Plant Rue in Vermont

Rue is a bitter, aromatic perennial herb with bluish-green foliage used historically in medicine and as a pest deterrent. Handle with care as its sap can cause skin irritation.

Vermont spans USDA hardiness zones 4a, 4b, 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 Rue planting dates based on your local frost dates.

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

Rue Planting Calendar for Vermont

Zone 4a ~145 day growing season · Full guide →

Last frost: May 6 · First frost: September 28 · 145 day season

Activity When Date Range
Transplant Outdoors May 13 May 13 – May 27
Harvest July 22 Jul 22 – Sep 23
Zone 4b ~155 day growing season · Full guide →

Last frost: May 1 · First frost: October 3 · 155 day season

Activity When Date Range
Transplant Outdoors May 8 May 8 – May 22
Harvest July 17 Jul 17 – Sep 18
Zone 5a ~166 day growing season · Full guide →

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

Activity When Date Range
Transplant Outdoors May 2 May 2 – May 16
Harvest July 11 Jul 11 – Sep 12

Growing Tips for Vermont

Start seeds indoors or direct sow. Plant in well-drained soil. Wear gloves when handling as sap can cause phytophotodermatitis. Prune in early spring.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I plant Rue in Vermont?

Planting dates for Rue in Vermont depend on your USDA zone. Vermont spans zones 4a, 4b, 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 4a, 4b, 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.