Frost Dates for Mesa, AZ 85204

Last spring frost February 14 · First fall frost November 29 · 288 frost-free days · USDA Zone 9b

Frost probability for 85204

Frost10%50%90%
Spring (last frost)March 18February 14—
Fall (first frost)November 12November 29—

Dates come from NOAA 1971–2000 freeze probabilities at the nearest reporting station (23.4 km away); the 50% date is the median year.

Frost dates by ZIP code in Mesa, AZ

ZIPLast spring frost (50%)First fall frost (50%)Zone
85204February 14November 299b
85212February 14November 279b
85201February 8December 59b
85207February 13November 299b
85205February 13November 299b
85209February 13November 299b
85210February 8December 510a
85202February 8December 510a
85203February 14November 299b
85206February 13November 299b
85208February 13November 299b
85213February 14November 299b
85215January 26December 199b

Month by month in Mesa

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 14. 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.
OctoberFirst fall frost approaching (around November 29). Transplant fall brassicas. Sow spinach, arugula, and radishes.
NovemberFirst frost around November 29. 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 288-day season

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the last frost date for Mesa, AZ (ZIP 85204)?

The median last spring frost date for Mesa, AZ (ZIP code 85204) is around February 14. 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 Mesa, AZ?

The median first fall frost date for Mesa, AZ is around November 29. 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 Mesa, AZ?

The frost-free growing season in Mesa is about 288 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 Mesa, AZ?

Based on frost date patterns, Mesa 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 Mesa, AZ?

Start tomato seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before your last frost date (around February 14). For Mesa, that's roughly December 20 to January 3. Transplant outdoors 1–2 weeks after your last frost.

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