Frost Dates for South Lake Tahoe, CA 96155

Last spring frost June 30 · First fall frost September 6 · 68 frost-free days · USDA Zone 7a

Frost probability for 96155

Frost10%50%90%
Spring (last frost)July 23June 30June 6
Fall (first frost)August 13September 6September 29

Dates come from NOAA 1971–2000 freeze probabilities at the nearest reporting station (6.7 km away); the 50% date is the median year.

Month by month in South Lake Tahoe

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 30). 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 30. 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 6). Transplant fall brassicas. Sow spinach, arugula, and radishes.
SeptemberFirst frost around September 6. 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 68-day season

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the last frost date for South Lake Tahoe, CA (ZIP 96155)?

The median last spring frost date for South Lake Tahoe, CA (ZIP code 96155) is around June 30. 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 South Lake Tahoe, CA?

The median first fall frost date for South Lake Tahoe, CA is around September 6. 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 South Lake Tahoe, CA?

The frost-free growing season in South Lake Tahoe is about 68 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 South Lake Tahoe, CA?

Based on frost date patterns, South Lake Tahoe falls approximately in 7a. 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 South Lake Tahoe, CA?

Start tomato seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before your last frost date (around June 30). For South Lake Tahoe, that's roughly May 5 to May 19. Transplant outdoors 1–2 weeks after your last frost.

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