Frost Dates for Nevada City, CA 95959

Last spring frost May 12 · First fall frost October 28 · 169 frost-free days · USDA Zone 9a

Frost probability for 95959

Frost10%50%90%
Spring (last frost)June 2May 12April 18
Fall (first frost)October 4October 28November 21

Dates come from NOAA 1971–2000 freeze probabilities at the nearest reporting station (15.7 km away); the 50% date is the median year.

Month by month in Nevada City

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).
MarchStart peppers and eggplant indoors 8–10 weeks before your last frost (around May 12). Start tomatoes about two weeks later, 6–8 weeks before last frost.
AprilStart herbs, basil, and squash indoors (4–6 weeks before frost). Direct sow peas, spinach, and lettuce if soil is workable.
MayLast frost around May 12. Transplant cold-hardy crops (broccoli, kale, cabbage). Harden off tomato and pepper seedlings.
JuneFrost has passed. Transplant tomatoes, peppers, and basil outdoors. Direct sow beans, cucumbers, squash, and zucchini.
JulySuccession plant lettuce and greens. Keep beds weeded and watered consistently.
AugustHarvest regularly to encourage production. Monitor for pests and disease.
SeptemberFirst fall frost approaching (around October 28). Transplant fall brassicas. Sow spinach, arugula, and radishes.
OctoberFirst frost around October 28. Harvest tomatoes and peppers before frost. Cover cold-hardy crops with row covers to extend the season.
NovemberHarvest remaining cold-hardy crops: kale, carrots, and beets. Plant garlic bulbs for next year.
DecemberClean up spent plants. Add compost to beds. Rest, review, and plan next year's garden.

What grows in a 169-day season

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the last frost date for Nevada City, CA (ZIP 95959)?

The median last spring frost date for Nevada City, CA (ZIP code 95959) is around May 12. 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 Nevada City, CA?

The median first fall frost date for Nevada City, CA is around October 28. 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 Nevada City, CA?

The frost-free growing season in Nevada City is about 169 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 Nevada City, CA?

Based on frost date patterns, Nevada City 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 Nevada City, CA?

Start tomato seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before your last frost date (around May 12). For Nevada City, that's roughly March 17 to March 31. Transplant outdoors 1–2 weeks after your last frost.

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