Frost Dates for Atwater, CA 95301

Last spring frost March 1 · First fall frost November 24 · 268 frost-free days · USDA Zone 9a

Frost probability for 95301

Frost10%50%90%
Spring (last frost)April 4March 1January 25
Fall (first frost)November 2November 24December 14

Dates come from NOAA 1971–2000 freeze probabilities at the nearest reporting station (32.5 km away); the 50% date is the median year.

Month by month in Atwater

MonthWhat to do
JanuaryStart peppers and eggplant indoors 8–10 weeks before your last frost (around March 1). Start tomatoes about two weeks later, 6–8 weeks before last frost.
FebruaryStart herbs, basil, and squash indoors (4–6 weeks before frost). Direct sow peas, spinach, and lettuce if soil is workable.
MarchLast frost around March 1. Transplant cold-hardy crops (broccoli, kale, cabbage). Harden off tomato and pepper seedlings.
AprilFrost has passed. Transplant tomatoes, peppers, and basil outdoors. Direct sow beans, cucumbers, squash, and zucchini.
MaySuccession plant lettuce and greens. Keep beds weeded and watered consistently.
JuneHarvest regularly to encourage production. Monitor for pests and disease.
JulyMidsummer: harvest beans, zucchini, cucumbers. Start brassica seeds indoors for fall.
AugustDirect sow carrots and beets for fall harvest. Start fall broccoli and kale indoors.
SeptemberDirect sow carrots and beets for fall harvest. Start fall broccoli and kale indoors.
OctoberFirst fall frost approaching (around November 24). Transplant fall brassicas. Sow spinach, arugula, and radishes.
NovemberFirst frost around November 24. Harvest tomatoes and peppers before frost. Cover cold-hardy crops with row covers to extend the season.
DecemberHarvest remaining cold-hardy crops: kale, carrots, and beets. Plant garlic bulbs for next year.

What grows in a 268-day season

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the last frost date for Atwater, CA (ZIP 95301)?

The median last spring frost date for Atwater, CA (ZIP code 95301) is around March 1. This is the 50th-percentile date — meaning half of all years see frost end before this date. Use the 10% and 90% dates to understand the full range of risk in your area.

What is the first fall frost date in Atwater, CA?

The median first fall frost date for Atwater, CA is around November 24. Plan to harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops like tomatoes and peppers at least a week before this date to avoid losses.

How long is the growing season in Atwater, CA?

The frost-free growing season in Atwater is about 268 days. This window — from your last spring frost to your first fall frost — is when warm-season vegetables thrive. Cold-hardy crops like kale, spinach, and peas can extend your season by weeks on either side.

What USDA hardiness zone is Atwater, CA?

Based on frost date patterns, Atwater falls approximately in 9a. USDA hardiness zones are determined by average annual minimum winter temperatures and guide both plant selection and planting timing for your location.

When should I start tomatoes indoors in Atwater, CA?

Start tomato seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before your last frost date (around March 1). For Atwater, that's roughly January 5 to January 19. Transplant outdoors 1–2 weeks after your last frost.

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