Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Riverside, CA, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 10a.
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Riverside, CA Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for Riverside, CA
The average last frost date in spring for Riverside is February 1st. For gardeners planting sensitive crops like tomatoes, peppers, and basil, it is generally recommended to wait until February 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 Riverside, CA
The average first frost date in fall for Riverside 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 Riverside, CA
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Riverside is approximately 317 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.
Riverside, CA Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
Riverside, CA Monthly Planting Recommendations
January
In January, recommended activities include direct sowing Arugula (from January 4th to January 18th), direct sowing Radish (from January 4th to January 18th), and direct sowing Chives (from January 4th to January 18th).
February
In February, recommended activities include direct sowing Corn (from February 15th to February 22nd), direct sowing Melon (from February 15th to March 1st), and direct sowing Runner Bean (from February 8th to February 22nd).
November
In November, recommended activities include starting Artichoke seeds indoors (from November 23rd to December 7th), starting Pansy seeds indoors (from November 23rd to December 7th), and starting Snapdragon seeds indoors (from November 23rd to December 7th).
December
In December, recommended activities include starting Broccoli seeds indoors (from December 7th to December 21st), starting Basil seeds indoors (from December 21st to January 4th), and starting Tomato seeds indoors (from December 7th to December 21st).