When to Plant in Beaverton, OR
Beaverton, Oregon, features a gardening calendar shaped by its climate, with a median last spring frost occurring on April 15 and a median first fall frost on October 29. The region enjoys approximately 197 frost-free days, making it suitable for a diverse range of plants and vegetables. The mild temperatures and moderate rainfall create favorable conditions for perennial crops and summer vegetables alike, allowing gardeners to maximize their growing season with careful planning.
The marine west coast climate contributes to mild, wet winters and dry summers, fostering an environment where certain crops thrive while others may struggle. Crops that excel in Beaverton include leafy greens like kale and spinach, which can withstand the cooler spring temperatures and benefit from the regular moisture. Additionally, berries such as blueberries and raspberries flourish in this climate thanks to the rich, well-drained soils often found in the area. However, crops like tomatoes and peppers might face challenges, as the cooler temperatures during the late summer and early fall can hinder their ripening process.
What to plant now in Beaverton
- Spring: Start sowing lettuce, peas, and carrots in early spring to take advantage of the cool weather before the last frost on April 15.
- Summer: Plant warm-weather crops such as beans, tomatoes, and cucumbers after the danger of frost has passed, ensuring a fruitful harvest by mid-summer.
- Fall: Consider planting kale, spinach, and radishes to maximize your fall harvest before the first frost on October 29.
- Winter: Prepare for next spring by planning your crop rotation and starting seeds indoors for early spring planting, especially for crops that can be sown after the frosts.
In Beaverton (197 frost-free days, a long season), 30 of 56 planner crops fit outright, 25 get two plantings, 1 crop is perennial.
Month by month in Beaverton
| Month | What to do |
|---|---|
| January | January is a quiet month for Beaverton gardeners. Use this time to plan your spring garden layout, research varieties of vegetables suitable for your climate, and start seeds indoors if desired. |
| February | As winter lingers, February is perfect for organizing your garden supplies. Check your seed inventory, and consider starting early indoor seedlings of vegetables like onions and leeks. |
| March | March signals the preparatory phase for spring planting. Begin sowing cold-tolerant seeds like peas and lettuce outdoors when the ground is workable, typically before April 15. |
| April | April is pivotal as the risk of frost decreases, with the last frost date on April 15. Direct sow carrots and radishes, and transplant cool-weather crops like broccoli. |
| May | By May, Beaverton gardeners can safely plant warm-weather crops. Transplant tomatoes and peppers outdoors after ensuring all frost danger has passed, typically after April 15. |
| June | June is an exciting month as summer gardening is in full swing. Maintain consistent watering and weeding, and plant fast-growing crops like beans and cucumbers for bountiful yields. |
| July | In July, keep a keen eye on your crops, watering deeply during dry spells. This month is ideal for succession planting; consider sowing late cucumbers and squash. |
| August | August is perfect for preparing for fall. Start sowing cool-season crops like kale and spinach, ensuring they mature before the first frost on October 29. |
| September | September brings the harvest season. Continue sowing for fall while collecting ripe summer fruits and vegetables, and prepare for the expected first frost on October 29. |
| October | As October progresses, monitor nighttime temperatures closely in anticipation of the first fall frost on October 29. Harvest remaining crops and consider covering vulnerable plants. |
| November | November's chilly weather indicates a pause in gardening. Utilize this time to clean up debris, assess your garden's performance, and plan for winter activities or early spring sowing. |
| December | December usually finds most Beaverton gardeners indoors. Reflect on your gardening successes from the year, and start gathering seeds or supplies for the upcoming spring planting seasons. |
Frost dates for Beaverton ZIP codes
| ZIP | Last spring frost (50%) | First fall frost (50%) | Zone |
|---|---|---|---|
| 97007 | April 15 | October 29 | 8b |
FAQ
When is the last frost in Beaverton?
The last frost in Beaverton typically occurs around April 15, marking an important date for planting many spring crops to ensure a healthy harvest.
What vegetables grow best in Beaverton?
Leafy vegetables like kale and spinach thrive, alongside fruits such as blueberries and raspberries. These crops benefit from the region's mild, wet winters.
When should I plant tomatoes in Beaverton?
Tomatoes should be planted outdoors after the last frost date of April 15, usually around mid-May, to ensure they thrive in the warmer summer temperatures.
Can I garden year-round in Beaverton?
Yes, with careful planning and the right crops, you can garden year-round in Beaverton. Focus on cool-season crops in the winter months.
How does Plan My Garden help Beaverton gardeners?
Plan My Garden provides tailored advice based on local frost dates and climate, maximizing your gardening success with specific planting times and crop recommendations.
Other city guides in Oregon
Published crop guides
- Arugula
- Basil
- Beans
- Beets
- Bok Choy
- Broccoli
- Brussels Sprouts
- Butternut Squash
- Cabbage
- Cantaloupe
- Carrots
- Cauliflower
- Celery
- Chives
- Cilantro
- Collard Greens
- Cucumbers
- Dill
- Eggplant
- Garlic
- Kale
- Kohlrabi
- Lettuce
- Melons
- Okra
- Onions
- Oregano
- Parsley
- Peas
- Peppers
- Potatoes
- Pumpkins
- Radishes
- Rosemary
- Sage
- Scallions
- Spinach
- Strawberries
- Sweet Corn
- Swiss Chard
- Thyme
- Tomatoes
- Turnip
- Zucchini