Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Santa maria, CA, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 9b.
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Santa maria, CA Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for Santa maria, CA
The average last frost date in spring for Santa maria is March 20th. For gardeners planting sensitive crops like tomatoes, peppers, and basil, it is generally recommended to wait until April 3rd 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 Santa maria, CA
The average first frost date in fall for Santa maria is December 5th. 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 Santa maria, CA
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Santa maria is approximately 260 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.
Santa maria, CA Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
Santa maria, CA Monthly Planting Recommendations
January
In January, recommended activities include starting Geranium seeds indoors (from January 9th to January 23rd), starting Cabbage seeds indoors (from January 23rd to February 6th), and starting Pansy seeds indoors (from January 9th to January 23rd).
February
In February, recommended activities include starting Pumpkin seeds indoors (from February 27th to March 6th), direct sowing Parsley (from February 20th to March 6th), starting Kale seeds indoors (from February 6th to February 20th), and direct sowing Kale (from February 20th to March 6th).
March
In March, recommended activities include direct sowing Alyssum (from March 6th to March 20th), direct sowing Babys Breath (from March 20th to April 3rd), and direct sowing Fennel (from March 6th to March 20th).
April
In April, recommended activities include direct sowing Corn (from April 3rd to April 10th), direct sowing Watermelon (from April 3rd to April 17th), and direct sowing Mung Bean (from April 3rd to April 17th).