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Can You Grow Chili Pepper in New York?

US · USDA Zone 6a · zones 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b

Grows well here

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

Plant zones

4a–11b

New York last frost

early April

New York first frost

late October

Days to harvest

65–80 days

When to plant Chili Peppers in New York

Start indoors

Feb 3

Transplant

Apr 1

Harvest

Jun 5 – Jun 20

Dates are approximate, based on New York'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 New York

New York ranges from Zone 6b in New York City to Zone 4a in the Adirondacks. Western New York near Lake Erie has a unique microclimate excellent for Concord grapes.

See what grows well in New York →

Frequently asked questions

Can you grow Chili Pepper in New York?

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

What zone is New York?

New York spans USDA Zone 6a (4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b).

When do you plant Chili Peppers in New York?

Plant Chili Peppers around early April (start indoors Feb 3), harvest Jun 5 – Jun 20.