Planting Dates for California
California's diverse climate ranges from Mediterranean coastal conditions to mountain and desert environments. The Central Valley is one of the world's most productive agricultural regions, and home gardeners benefit from year-round growing in many areas.
USDA Zones 5a-11a • 150-365 frost-free days depending on location
Frost Dates in California
Average last spring frost and first fall frost dates for California cities. Use these to calculate your planting windows.
| City | Last Spring Frost | First Fall Frost | Frost-Free Days | USDA Zone |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles | Jan 15 | Dec 25 | 344 | 10b |
| Sacramento | Feb 14 | Dec 1 | 290 | 9b |
| San Francisco | Jan 10 | Dec 28 | 352 | 10b |
| Fresno | Feb 20 | Nov 24 | 277 | 9b |
Gardening Tips for California
- ✓Coastal California can garden year-round with proper variety selection.
- ✓Central Valley gardeners face extreme summer heat — provide afternoon shade.
- ✓Southern California's dry climate requires efficient irrigation systems.
- ✓Northern California mountains have short seasons similar to the Pacific Northwest.
What to Plant in California
Cold-Hardy Crops (plant early)
These crops tolerate frost and can be planted 2-6 weeks before your last frost date.
30-60 days from sowing
55-70 days from sowing
60-80 days from sowing
50-70 days from sowing
55-80 days from transplant
35-50 days from sowing
20-35 days from sowing
July-August the following year
90-120 days from transplant
70-120 days from planting
50-70 days from sowing
50-60 days from sowing
Warm-Season Crops (plant after last frost)
Start these indoors and transplant after all frost danger has passed.
60-85 days from transplant
60-90 days from transplant
50-65 days from sowing
50-65 days from sowing
45-60 days from sowing
60-100 days from sowing
30-60 days from sowing
Get Exact Planting Dates for California
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Frequently Asked Questions
When is the last frost date in California?
Last frost dates in California vary by city: Los Angeles (Jan 15), Sacramento (Feb 14), San Francisco (Jan 10), Fresno (Feb 20).
What USDA hardiness zones are in California?
California spans USDA hardiness zones 5a-11a. Your specific zone determines which perennials survive winter and when to start planting annuals.
What vegetables grow best in California?
Hardy crops like peas, kale, spinach, and garlic thrive across California. In warmer zones, tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers do well with proper timing. Use our free calculator for exact planting dates.
How long is the growing season in California?
150-365 frost-free days depending on location. Extend your season with cold frames, row covers, and indoor seed starting.
Planting Dates by State
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Free Calculator
Calculate exact planting dates based on your location and frost dates.