Frost Dates for Taft, CA 93268

Last spring frost February 17 · First fall frost November 22 · 278 frost-free days · USDA Zone 9b

Frost probability for 93268

Frost10%50%90%
Spring (last frost)March 21February 17January 18
Fall (first frost)November 7November 22December 7

Dates come from NOAA 1971–2000 freeze probabilities at the nearest reporting station (26.8 km away); the 50% date is the median year.

Month by month in Taft

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 17. 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 22). Transplant fall brassicas. Sow spinach, arugula, and radishes.
NovemberFirst frost around November 22. 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 278-day season

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the last frost date for Taft, CA (ZIP 93268)?

The median last spring frost date for Taft, CA (ZIP code 93268) is around February 17. 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 Taft, CA?

The median first fall frost date for Taft, CA is around November 22. 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 Taft, CA?

The frost-free growing season in Taft is about 278 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 Taft, CA?

Based on frost date patterns, Taft 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 Taft, CA?

Start tomato seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before your last frost date (around February 17). For Taft, that's roughly December 23 to January 6. Transplant outdoors 1–2 weeks after your last frost.

Nearby and related