Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Bakersfield, CA, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 9b.
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Bakersfield, CA Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for Bakersfield, CA
The average last frost date in spring for Bakersfield is February 20th. For gardeners planting sensitive crops like tomatoes, peppers, and basil, it is generally recommended to wait until March 6th before moving plants outdoors. Waiting these extra few weeks significantly reduces the risk of a late freeze damaging young transplants.
First Fall Frost Date for Bakersfield, CA
The average first frost date in fall for Bakersfield is November 25th. This date marks the approximate end of the growing season for tender plants. Gardeners should plan to harvest frost-sensitive vegetables or provide heavy protection (such as row covers) before this date to avoid crop loss.
Growing Season Length in Bakersfield, CA
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Bakersfield is approximately 278 days. This duration determines which vegetable varieties have enough time to reach maturity before the winter cold sets in. Short-season varieties are recommended for crops that require a longer warm period.
Please note: These dates are climatological averages. Actual weather conditions vary by year. Always check the local 10-day forecast before planting.
Bakersfield, CA Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
Bakersfield, CA Monthly Planting Recommendations
January
In January, recommended activities include direct sowing Alfalfa (from January 23rd to February 6th), direct sowing Watercress (from January 23rd to February 6th), and direct sowing Chives (from January 23rd to February 6th).
February
In February, recommended activities include direct sowing Pumpkin (from February 27th to March 13th), direct sowing Dill (from February 6th to February 20th), and direct sowing Alyssum (from February 6th to February 20th).
March
In March, recommended activities include direct sowing Sesame (from March 6th to March 20th), direct sowing Mung Bean (from March 6th to March 20th), and direct sowing Lima Bean (from March 6th to March 20th).
December
In December, recommended activities include starting Ground Cherry seeds indoors (from December 26th to January 9th), starting Statice seeds indoors (from December 26th to January 9th), and starting Black Eyed Susan seeds indoors (from December 26th to January 9th).