Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Portland, OR, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 9a.
On this page:
Portland, OR Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for Portland, OR
The average last frost date in spring for Portland is March 25th. For gardeners planting sensitive crops like tomatoes, peppers, and basil, it is generally recommended to wait until April 8th 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 Portland, OR
The average first frost date in fall for Portland is November 1st. 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 Portland, OR
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Portland is approximately 221 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.
Portland, OR Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
Portland, OR Monthly Planting Recommendations
January
In January, recommended activities include starting Cabbage seeds indoors (from January 28th to February 11th), starting Begonia seeds indoors (from January 14th to January 28th), and starting Coleus seeds indoors (from January 28th to February 11th).
February
In February, recommended activities include direct sowing Lettuce (from February 25th to March 11th), direct sowing Alfalfa (from February 25th to March 11th), and direct sowing Mustard (from February 25th to March 11th).
March
In March, recommended activities include direct sowing Alyssum (from March 11th to March 25th), direct sowing Milk Thistle (from March 11th to March 25th), and direct sowing Hyssop (from March 11th to March 25th).
April
In April, recommended activities include direct sowing Cucumber (from April 1st to April 15th), direct sowing Pumpkin (from April 1st to April 15th), and direct sowing Butterfly Pea (from April 8th to April 22nd).