When to Plant in Anaheim, CA

Anaheim, California, is characterized by a frost-free climate, which means that hard frost events are virtually nonexistent. This unique climatic characteristic allows gardeners to plan their crops with a significant degree of flexibility, permitting year-round growth for many vegetables and herbs. With the absence of frost, gardeners can cultivate continuous greens, such as spinach and kale, and enjoy the luxury of multiple succession sowings throughout the year. This climate also supports the establishment of diverse herb gardens, ensuring a fresh supply of flavors for culinary use.

The microclimate in Anaheim is classified as Mediterranean, featuring mild, dry summers with warm to hot temperatures and relatively cool winters. This environment is particularly beneficial for crops like tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants, all of which thrive in the heat and produce high yields. Conversely, crops that require a chilling period, such as apples and certain varieties of lettuce, may struggle to set fruit or develop properly due to the lack of winter chill. Furthermore, humidity-sensitive crops like basil can face issues if grown in excessively damp conditions.

What to plant now in Anaheim

Herbs like basil, cilantro, and parsley can be planted any time due to the warm climate, ensuring a continual harvest.
Succession plantings of leafy greens, such as lettuce and spinach, can be made every few weeks to provide a constant supply.
Consider planting warm-season crops like tomatoes, peppers, and squash now for abundant summer yields.
Start planting heat-tolerant vegetables, taking advantage of the ongoing warm weather for flourishing growth.

Anaheim has a year-round, frost-free season. Cool-season crops: Lettuce, Carrots, Peas, Onion, Spinach, Kale, Broccoli, Cabbage, Radish, Beets, Potatoes, Garlic, Strawberry, Cauliflower, Swiss Chard, Arugula, Brussel Sprouts, Cilantro, Parsley, Celery, Scallions, Turnip, Kohlrabi, Bok Choy, Collards, Chives, Dill, Oregano, Rosemary, Sage, Thyme, Calendula, Lavender, Mint. Warm-season crops: Tomato, Pepper, Cucumber, Beans, Zucchini, Corn, Pumpkin, Butternut Squash, Eggplant, Okra, Basil, Cantaloupe, Cosmos, Marigolds, Melons, Nasturtiums, Pole Beans, Spaghetti Squash, Sunflowers, Tomatillos, Watermelon, Yellow Squash, Zinnias.

Month by month in Anaheim

Month	What to do
January	In January, winter gardening involves planting cool-season crops like kale and beets. Maintaining beds after the holiday season allows for early spring growth as temperatures begin to rise.
February	February is perfect for planting peas and spinach, along with planning summer gardens. The mild temperatures mean that you can start seeds indoors for later transplanting.
March	As spring approaches, March is an excellent time to plant warm-season crops like tomatoes and peppers. Take advantage of the warm soil and increasing daylight hours.
April	April brings heat, making it the ideal time for direct sowing beans and corn. Ensure regular watering as the weather starts getting hotter, keeping soil moisture levels consistent.
May	In May, heat-loving plants will flourish. Continue planting summer crops such as melons and okra while maintaining irrigation to ensure plants thrive in the warmth.
June	June marks the transition into peak summer. Focus on harvesting early crops while also planning for late summer plantings of rapid-growing varieties like radishes and quick-growing greens.
July	July brings peak summer heat. Irrigation is crucial during this time for all heat-sensitive plants and summer crops. Consider shade cloths for sensitive crops during the hottest periods.
August	In August, maintain heat-tolerant plants while also starting late summer plantings for fall harvest. Crops like beets and carrots can be sown now for a late-season crop.
September	September continues to provide warm days. This month is perfect for planting fall crops like broccoli and cabbage and preparing garden beds for winter vegetables.
October	October is significant for planting garlic and shallots. The mild climate allows for root crops to develop as temperatures cool, ensuring a healthy harvest in spring.
November	In November, continue growing greens and preparing for winter season gardening. This time is ideal for plantings that will flourish with the mild winter temperatures.
December	In December, maintain your garden by focusing on any remaining cool-weather crops like lettuce and spinach. Take care of soil health through compost adding to prepare for the coming year.

Frost dates for Anaheim ZIP codes

ZIP	Last spring frost (50%)	First fall frost (50%)	Zone
92804	—	—	10a

FAQ

When is the last frost in Anaheim?

32°F frost is essentially absent from the long-term NOAA record for Anaheim. This means that gardeners don’t have to worry about frost damage, allowing for continuous planting and cropping throughout the year without the typical concerns regarding frost.

What vegetables grow best in Anaheim?

Vegetables such as tomatoes, peppers, and squash grow exceptionally well in Anaheim’s climate due to the warmth and extended growing season. These crops thrive, producing abundant fruit.

When should I plant tomatoes in Anaheim?

Tomatoes can be planted in March, as the temperatures begin to rise. Given the lack of frost, you can also start earlier indoors to ensure an earlier harvest.

Can I garden year-round in Anaheim?

Yes, gardening year-round is entirely possible in Anaheim. The frost-free climate allows for a continuous growing season, making it ideal for a wide variety of vegetables, herbs, and flowers.

How does Plan My Garden help Anaheim gardeners?

Plan My Garden provides tailored gardening calendars and resources that cater specifically to unique climates like Anaheim's. With insights into optimal planting seasons and crop choices, it helps local gardeners maximize their yields.