Frost Dates for Scottsdale, AZ 85254

Last spring frost February 6 · First fall frost December 13 · 310 frost-free days · USDA Zone 10a

Frost probability for 85254

Frost10%50%90%
Spring (last frost)March 18February 6—
Fall (first frost)November 18December 13—

Dates come from NOAA 1971–2000 freeze probabilities at the nearest reporting station (22.9 km away); the 50% date is the median year.

Frost dates by ZIP code in Scottsdale, AZ

ZIPLast spring frost (50%)First fall frost (50%)Zone
85254February 6December 1310a
85255February 1December 1510a
85251February 8December 59b
85260February 6December 1310a
85257February 8December 59b
85258February 6December 1310a
85259February 6December 1310a
85250February 8December 59b
85262February 6December 139b
85266February 1December 1510a
85256February 8December 59b

Month by month in Scottsdale

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 6. 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 13). Transplant fall brassicas. Sow spinach, arugula, and radishes.
DecemberFirst frost around December 13. Harvest tomatoes and peppers before frost. Cover cold-hardy crops with row covers to extend the season.

What grows in a 310-day season

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the last frost date for Scottsdale, AZ (ZIP 85254)?

The median last spring frost date for Scottsdale, AZ (ZIP code 85254) is around February 6. 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 Scottsdale, AZ?

The median first fall frost date for Scottsdale, AZ is around December 13. 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 Scottsdale, AZ?

The frost-free growing season in Scottsdale is about 310 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 Scottsdale, AZ?

Based on frost date patterns, Scottsdale falls approximately in 10a. 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 Scottsdale, AZ?

Start tomato seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before your last frost date (around February 6). For Scottsdale, that's roughly December 12 to December 26. Transplant outdoors 1–2 weeks after your last frost.

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