Frost Dates for Crystal River, FL 34428

Last spring frost February 20 · First fall frost December 18 · 301 frost-free days · USDA Zone 9b

Frost probability for 34428

Frost10%50%90%
Spring (last frost)March 19February 20January 22
Fall (first frost)November 20December 18January 20

Dates come from NOAA 1971–2000 freeze probabilities at the nearest reporting station (49.6 km away); the 50% date is the median year.

Frost dates by ZIP code in Crystal River, FL

ZIPLast spring frost (50%)First fall frost (50%)Zone
34428February 20December 189b
34429February 20December 189b

Month by month in Crystal River

MonthWhat to do
JanuaryStart herbs, basil, and squash indoors (4–6 weeks before frost). Direct sow peas, spinach, and lettuce if soil is workable.
FebruaryLast frost around February 20. Transplant cold-hardy crops (broccoli, kale, cabbage). Harden off tomato and pepper seedlings.
MarchFrost has passed. Transplant tomatoes, peppers, and basil outdoors. Direct sow beans, cucumbers, squash, and zucchini.
AprilSuccession plant lettuce and greens. Keep beds weeded and watered consistently.
MayHarvest regularly to encourage production. Monitor for pests and disease.
JuneMidsummer: harvest beans, zucchini, cucumbers. Start brassica seeds indoors for fall.
JulyDirect sow carrots and beets for fall harvest. Start fall broccoli and kale indoors.
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.
OctoberDirect sow carrots and beets for fall harvest. Start fall broccoli and kale indoors.
NovemberFirst fall frost approaching (around December 18). Transplant fall brassicas. Sow spinach, arugula, and radishes.
DecemberFirst frost around December 18. Harvest tomatoes and peppers before frost. Cover cold-hardy crops with row covers to extend the season.

What grows in a 301-day season

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the last frost date for Crystal River, FL (ZIP 34428)?

The median last spring frost date for Crystal River, FL (ZIP code 34428) is around February 20. 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 Crystal River, FL?

The median first fall frost date for Crystal River, FL is around December 18. 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 Crystal River, FL?

The frost-free growing season in Crystal River is about 301 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 Crystal River, FL?

Based on frost date patterns, Crystal River falls approximately in 9b. 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 Crystal River, FL?

Start tomato seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before your last frost date (around February 20). For Crystal River, that's roughly December 26 to January 9. Transplant outdoors 1–2 weeks after your last frost.

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