Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Des moines, WA, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 9a.
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Des moines, WA Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for Des moines, WA
The average last frost date in spring for Des moines 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 Des moines, WA
The average first frost date in fall for Des moines 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 Des moines, WA
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Des moines 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.
Des moines, WA Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
Des moines, WA Monthly Planting Recommendations
January
In January, recommended activities include starting Oregano seeds indoors (from January 28th to February 11th), starting Petunia seeds indoors (from January 14th to January 28th), and starting Statice seeds indoors (from January 28th to February 11th).
February
In February, recommended activities include direct sowing Watercress (from February 25th to March 11th), direct sowing Bok Choy (from February 25th to March 11th), and direct sowing Spinach (from February 11th to February 25th).
March
In March, recommended activities include direct sowing Calendula (from March 11th to March 25th), direct sowing Fennel (from March 11th to March 25th), and direct sowing Babys Breath (from March 25th to April 8th).
April
In April, recommended activities include direct sowing Butterfly Pea (from April 8th to April 22nd), direct sowing Sesame (from April 8th to April 22nd), and direct sowing Jute (from April 8th to April 22nd).