Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Downey, CA, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 10b.
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Downey, CA Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for Downey, CA
The average last frost date in spring for Downey is January 1st. For gardeners planting sensitive crops like tomatoes, peppers, and basil, it is generally recommended to wait until January 15th 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 Downey, CA
The average first frost date in fall for Downey is December 15th. 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 Downey, CA
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Downey is approximately 348 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.
Downey, CA Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
Downey, CA Monthly Planting Recommendations
January
In January, recommended activities include direct sowing Lemon Balm (from January 1st to January 15th), direct sowing Corn (from January 15th to January 22nd), and direct sowing Sesame (from January 15th to January 29th).
October
In October, recommended activities include starting Begonia seeds indoors (from October 23rd to November 6th), starting Pansy seeds indoors (from October 23rd to November 6th), and starting Lavender seeds indoors (from October 23rd to November 6th).
November
In November, recommended activities include starting Tomatillo seeds indoors (from November 6th to November 20th), starting Cabbage seeds indoors (from November 6th to November 20th), and starting Oregano seeds indoors (from November 6th to November 20th).
December
In December, recommended activities include direct sowing Calendula (from December 18th to January 1st), direct sowing Mustard (from December 4th to December 18th), and direct sowing Poppy (from December 4th to December 18th).