Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Modesto, CA, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 9b.
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Modesto, CA Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for Modesto, CA
The average last frost date in spring for Modesto 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 Modesto, CA
The average first frost date in fall for Modesto is November 20th. 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 Modesto, CA
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Modesto is approximately 273 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.
Modesto, CA Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
Modesto, CA Monthly Planting Recommendations
January
In January, recommended activities include direct sowing California Poppy (from January 23rd to February 6th), starting Moonflower seeds indoors (from January 9th to January 23rd), and starting Sage seeds indoors (from January 9th to January 23rd).
February
In February, recommended activities include direct sowing Lemon Balm (from February 20th to March 6th), direct sowing Hyssop (from February 6th to February 20th), and direct sowing Zinnia (from February 27th to March 13th).
March
In March, recommended activities include direct sowing Butterfly Pea (from March 6th to March 20th), direct sowing Chia (from March 6th to March 20th), and direct sowing Watermelon (from March 6th to March 20th).
December
In December, recommended activities include starting Begonia seeds indoors (from December 12th to December 26th), starting Cauliflower seeds indoors (from December 26th to January 9th), and starting Tomatillo seeds indoors (from December 26th to January 9th).