When to Plant in Las Vegas, NV

Las Vegas is in the Mojave Desert — Zone 9a with a last frost around February 16. Summer temperatures regularly reach 115°F, making June through August essentially impossible for most vegetables. Like Phoenix, Las Vegas gardening is best in fall through spring.

Las Vegas gardeners follow a reverse-season calendar. The prime growing windows are fall (September–November) and spring (February–April). Winter is actually excellent for cool-season crops. Water management is critical in the desert.

This month in Las Vegas: October 2026

Las Vegas's first frost usually holds off until around November 27, and October starts the best growing stretch of the year. The nights finally cool off and the sun eases up.

This is the month for cool-season crops. Sow lettuce, spinach, carrots, beets, and radishes directly, and set out broccoli, cabbage, and kale transplants. Garlic can go in now too.

The air is still dry and most yards sit on hard caliche, so water deeply in the morning and keep new seedbeds damp until they're up. Tomatoes often set a second round of fruit as the nights cool; leave them in until they stop.

Updated October 8, 2026

FAQ

When is the last frost date in Las Vegas, NV?

Las Vegas's average last frost date is around February 16 — but summer heat (115°F+) is the real growing season limiter. The main challenge is summer, not winter.

When can I grow tomatoes in Las Vegas?

Plant fall tomatoes in September for a November–December harvest. Plant spring tomatoes in January–February for an April–May harvest. Summer heat (above 100°F) stops fruit set.

What grows best in Las Vegas?

Fall and winter cool-season crops are excellent: broccoli, kale, lettuce, carrots, and spinach. Spring tomatoes, peppers, and squash produce well before summer heat arrives.

How much do I need to water in Las Vegas?

Significantly — Las Vegas gets only 4 inches of rain per year. Daily watering or drip irrigation on a timer is essential for most vegetables. Deep mulching reduces water loss.

How does Plan My Garden help Las Vegas gardeners?

Enter your Las Vegas zip code for a planting schedule tuned to the Mojave Desert's reverse-season growing calendar.