What is a "last frost date"?

The last frost date is the average calendar date after which frost is unlikely to occur in spring. It is based on decades of weather records and represents roughly a 50% probability — actual frost may occur a week or two later in cold years. Many gardeners wait until 2 weeks after the average to be safe.

What is a "first frost date"?

The first frost date is the average date in fall when overnight temperatures first dip to 32°F (0°C). Frost-sensitive crops like tomatoes, peppers, and basil must be harvested or covered before this date.

How accurate are these dates?

The dates shown are 30-year historical averages compiled from NOAA and USDA data. They represent the median expectation, not a guarantee. Microclimates (low-lying spots, urban heat islands, proximity to water) can shift your actual frost dates by 1–2 weeks.

My city is not listed. What should I do?

Choose the nearest listed city at a similar elevation. You can also look up your zip code on the Old Farmer's Almanac or NOAA frost date tool for a more precise local average.

What does "frost-free days" mean?

Frost-free days is the number of days between the last spring frost and first fall frost. It represents your outdoor growing window for tender crops. Most vegetables need 60–120 frost-free days to reach harvest.

Frost Date Lookup

Name: Frost Date Lookup
Availability: InStock
Author: Nham Vu

Search your US city to find average last spring frost and first fall frost dates for planting planning.

Search Your City

Covers 200+ US cities with historical frost averages.

Popular Cities

Search a city on the left to see its frost dates.

Summary

Search your US city to find average last spring frost and first fall frost dates for planting planning.

How it works

Type your city name or state in the search box.
Select your city from the matching results list.
View the average last spring frost date and first fall frost date.
See your estimated frost-free growing season length.
Use the dates in a planting calendar to schedule sowing and transplanting.

Use cases

Find out when it is safe to transplant tomatoes and peppers outside.
Schedule indoor seed starting 6–8 weeks before the last frost.
Know the first fall frost date to harvest frost-sensitive crops in time.
Compare frost dates when choosing between garden locations.
Plan successive plantings to maximize your growing season.
Determine if your region supports long-season crops like watermelon.

Frequently Asked Questions

Last updated: 2026-07-01 · Reviewed by Nham Vu