Delaware in USDA Zone 7
Delaware is primarily in Zone 7. Local microclimates can vary.
Growing Microgreens in Delaware
Zone 7's generous growing season and moderate climate make it nearly perfect for microgreen production, though the summer heat can present some unique challenges. With your last frost typically clearing by April 1st and the first freeze holding off until late October, you have over seven months of prime growing conditions – but those scorching July and August temperatures can stress heat-sensitive varieties like cilantro and pea shoots. The key is selecting microgreens that can handle your zone's temperature swings while taking advantage of your extended season. The varieties I've selected for Zone 7 gardens excel in your climate's spring warmth, tolerate summer heat reasonably well, or thrive in your delightfully long fall growing window. Heat-lovers like amaranth and basil microgreens absolutely shine here, while cool-season favorites like arugula and radish can be grown successfully with some summer shade protection.
Zone 7 Microgreens for Delaware
57 varieties · Last frost April 1 · 210-day season
Zone 7 Growing Tips for Delaware
In Zone 7, you can start your microgreen seeds outdoors as early as mid-March, giving them protection from any surprise late cold snaps with row covers or cold frames. The real advantage of your zone shows up in fall – while northern gardeners are shutting down, you can keep sowing cool-season microgreens like kale, broccoli, and mustard right through September and often into early October. Summer growing requires some strategy: set up shade cloth (30-50%) for heat-sensitive varieties and consider growing them in a slightly cooler spot, like the east side of your house where they'll get morning sun but afternoon relief. Your biggest challenge will be the intense summer sun and heat, which can cause quick bolting in cool-season varieties like cilantro and arugula. Combat this by succession planting every 2-3 weeks and having a backup indoor growing setup for the hottest months. The payoff is a harvest season that can stretch from March clear through November with proper planning.