Frost Dates for Elko, NV 89801

Last spring frost June 16 · First fall frost September 10 · 86 frost-free days · USDA Zone 5a

Frost probability for 89801

Frost10%50%90%
Spring (last frost)July 6June 16May 26
Fall (first frost)August 22September 10September 26

Dates come from NOAA 1971–2000 freeze probabilities at the nearest reporting station (41.4 km away); the 50% date is the median year.

Month by month in Elko

MonthWhat to do
JanuaryPlan your garden layout and order seeds. Research varieties suited to your frost dates.
FebruaryStart the slowest-growing crops indoors: onions, leeks, and celery (10–12 weeks before last frost).
MarchOrganize planting supplies and seed-starting mix. Check stored garden tools.
AprilStart peppers and eggplant indoors 8–10 weeks before your last frost (around June 16). Start tomatoes about two weeks later, 6–8 weeks before last frost.
MayStart herbs, basil, and squash indoors (4–6 weeks before frost). Direct sow peas, spinach, and lettuce if soil is workable.
JuneLast frost around June 16. Transplant cold-hardy crops (broccoli, kale, cabbage). Harden off tomato and pepper seedlings.
JulyFrost has passed. Transplant tomatoes, peppers, and basil outdoors. Direct sow beans, cucumbers, squash, and zucchini.
AugustFirst fall frost approaching (around September 10). Transplant fall brassicas. Sow spinach, arugula, and radishes.
SeptemberFirst frost around September 10. Harvest tomatoes and peppers before frost. Cover cold-hardy crops with row covers to extend the season.
OctoberHarvest remaining cold-hardy crops: kale, carrots, and beets. Plant garlic bulbs for next year.
NovemberClean up spent plants. Add compost to beds. Rest, review, and plan next year's garden.
DecemberClean up spent plants. Add compost to beds. Rest, review, and plan next year's garden.

What grows in a 86-day season

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the last frost date for Elko, NV (ZIP 89801)?

The median last spring frost date for Elko, NV (ZIP code 89801) is around June 16. 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 Elko, NV?

The median first fall frost date for Elko, NV is around September 10. 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 Elko, NV?

The frost-free growing season in Elko is about 86 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 Elko, NV?

Based on frost date patterns, Elko falls approximately in 5a. 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 Elko, NV?

Start tomato seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before your last frost date (around June 16). For Elko, that's roughly April 21 to May 5. Transplant outdoors 1–2 weeks after your last frost.

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