First and Last Frost Dates by Zip Code

Wondering when to start planting? Begin with your local frost dates.

Use our Frost Dates Calculator to find the average date of the last spring frost (and the first fall frost) in your area—based on the nearest official weather station and your ZIP or Postal Code. This information reveals your local growing season length and helps you plan planting, harvesting, and garden care.

Knowing your frost dates is more than a calendar check—it’s about understanding your garden’s unique climate rhythm. Your last spring frost date helps you know when it’s safe to start planting outdoors. The first spring frost signals the start of the growing season and guides important garden tasks, especially starting new seeds!

What Is a Last Spring Frost Date?

Your last spring frost is the average final date when temperatures may dip to 32°F (0°C). After this point, the risk of frost drops—and the planting season begins.

These dates are based on historical climate data and a 30% probability threshold. In other words, there's still a chance of frost after the listed date, so always watch your local weather forecast.

Why Spring Frost Dates Matter

Knowing your last frost date helps you:

Start seeds indoors at the right time
Transplant seedlings safely outdoors
Avoid cold damage to tender vegetables, herbs, and flowers
Timing your planting around frost dates increases success—especially for crops like:
- Tomatoes
- Peppers
- Cucumbers
- Basil
- Zinnias and marigolds

See Our Planting Calendar by ZIP Code

What Can I Plant Before the Last Frost?

Some hardy crops can be planted before your last frost date:

Peas
Spinach
Radishes
Carrots
Onions
Lettuce

These cool-weather crops can handle light frosts and benefit from an early start in cool soil.

What to Start Indoors vs. Direct Sow Outdoors

What Is the Growing Season?

The time between your last spring frost and first fall frost is your growing season—the window when most warm-weather plants can thrive.

Knowing this helps you:

Choose appropriate crop varieties (based on "days to maturity")
Plan succession plantings for longer harvests
Time both spring and fall crops with confidence

Learn How to Extend the Growing Season.

Spring Frost Date FAQs

Q: Can frost happen after my last spring frost date?
A: Yes—this is just an average. Always monitor your local forecast before planting warm-season crops outdoors.

Q: What should I plant first?
A: Hardy vegetables like spinach, peas, and carrots can be planted before the last frost. Tender crops like tomatoes and basil must wait until all danger of frost has passed.

Q: Should I start seeds indoors before the frost date?
A: Yes. Use your last frost date to count back and schedule when to start seeds indoors for transplanting later.

Q: What temperature counts as a frost?
A: 32°F (0°C) is considered a light frost. Some plants are damaged even in the 33°F–36°F range, depending on conditions.

Get Ready to Grow

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