Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Rainier, OR, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 8b.
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Rainier, OR Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for Rainier, OR
The average last frost date in spring for Rainier is April 25th. For gardeners planting sensitive crops like tomatoes, peppers, and basil, it is generally recommended to wait until May 9th 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 Rainier, OR
The average first frost date in fall for Rainier is October 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 Rainier, OR
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Rainier is approximately 178 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.
Rainier, OR Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
Rainier, OR Monthly Planting Recommendations
February
In February, recommended activities include starting Onion seeds indoors (from February 14th to February 28th), starting Snapdragon seeds indoors (from February 14th to February 28th), and starting Petunia seeds indoors (from February 14th to February 28th).
March
In March, recommended activities include direct sowing Chervil (from March 28th to April 11th), starting Moonflower seeds indoors (from March 14th to March 28th), and direct sowing Poppy (from March 28th to April 11th).
April
In April, recommended activities include direct sowing Dill (from April 11th to April 25th), direct sowing Hyssop (from April 11th to April 25th), and direct sowing Carrot (from April 4th to April 18th).
May
In May, recommended activities include direct sowing Chia (from May 9th to May 23rd), direct sowing Melon (from May 9th to May 23rd), and direct sowing Butterfly Pea (from May 9th to May 23rd).