When to Plant in Oregon

Oregon's Willamette Valley is one of the most productive agricultural regions in the country, and home gardeners benefit from the same mild, moist climate. West of the Cascades, winters are mild and summers are dry with long daylight hours.

East of the Cascades, conditions are dramatically different — cold winters, hot summers, and an arid climate. Central Oregon around Bend can get frost as late as mid-June, while Portland's last frost is typically in mid-April.

Common Mistakes

Planting warm-season crops too early in the Willamette Valley — cool, wet springs can rot seeds and stunt transplants.
Not accounting for the east-west climate divide — Portland and Bend have very different growing seasons.
Ignoring slug pressure — Oregon's wet climate makes slugs a major garden pest, especially in spring.
Overwatering in summer — western Oregon's dry summers require consistent irrigation, but not soggy soil.

FAQ

What is the last frost date?

The last frost date is the typical date in spring when your area has its final frost. After this date, it's generally safe to plant warm-season crops outdoors.

When should I start tomatoes indoors in Oregon?

Start tomato seeds indoors about 6–8 weeks before your last frost date. In the Portland area, that's typically early to mid-March. East of the Cascades, start in April.

Can I plant before the last frost?

Yes — cool-season crops like lettuce, peas, spinach, and broccoli can handle light frost and should be planted 4–6 weeks before your last frost date.

Why does timing vary so much within Oregon?

The Cascade Range divides Oregon into two distinct climates. Western Oregon is mild and maritime, while eastern Oregon is continental with harsher winters and hotter summers.

What if I live in a frost-free area?

Coastal Oregon rarely sees hard freezes, but the cool temperatures and fog limit warm-season crop growth. Enter your zip code in the app for your personalized schedule.

How does Plan My Garden create my schedule?

You enter your zip code, and we look up your local frost dates. Then based on the crops you pick, we calculate when to start seeds, transplant, and harvest — personalized to your location.