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Can You Grow Chili Pepper in Massachusetts?

US · USDA Zone 6a · zones 5b, 6a, 6b

Grows well here

Chili peppers thrive here — expect a productive harvest through the warm months.

Plant zones

4a–11b

Massachusetts last frost

early April

Massachusetts first frost

late October

Days to harvest

65–80 days

When to plant Chili Peppers in Massachusetts

Start indoors

Feb 3

Transplant

Apr 1

Harvest

Jun 5 – Jun 20

Dates are approximate, based on Massachusetts's average frost dates. Your exact yard may vary by microclimate.

About Chili Pepper

Chili peppers are drought-tolerant once established and highly productive in warm sunny conditions.

Start indoors 8-10 weeks before last frost. Chilies love heat — the hotter the summer the hotter the pepper. Great for containers on south-facing balconies.

Full chili pepper growing guide →

Gardening in Massachusetts

Massachusetts has a humid continental climate. Boston and coastal areas are Zone 6a-6b; inland areas are colder at Zone 5b-6a. Four seasons with a 5-6 month growing window.