Frost Dates for Tucson, AZ 85757

Tucson has 38 ZIP codes. The Tucson, AZ frost page lists all of them with their dates.

Last spring frost February 16 · First fall frost November 29 · 286 frost-free days · USDA Zone 9a

Frost probability for 85757

Frost10%50%90%
Spring (last frost)March 18February 16January 17
Fall (first frost)November 9November 29December 4

Dates come from NOAA 1971–2000 freeze probabilities at the nearest reporting station (15.6 km away); the 50% date is the median year.

Month by month in Tucson

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 16. 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 286-day season

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the last frost date for Tucson, AZ (ZIP 85757)?

The median last spring frost date for Tucson, AZ (ZIP code 85757) is around February 16. 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 Tucson, AZ?

The median first fall frost date for Tucson, 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 Tucson, AZ?

The frost-free growing season in Tucson is about 286 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 Tucson, AZ?

Based on frost date patterns, Tucson 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 Tucson, AZ?

Start tomato seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before your last frost date (around February 16). For Tucson, that's roughly December 22 to January 5. Transplant outdoors 1–2 weeks after your last frost.

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