When to Plant in Bellevue, WA

In Bellevue, gardeners benefit from a planting window defined by the median last spring frost on April 10 and the median first fall frost on October 25, providing approximately 199 frost-free days suitable for growing a variety of plants. This extended growing season allows for a diverse garden, enabling the cultivation of everything from vegetables to flowers, maximizing the productivity of the landscape as spring transitions to summer, and summer into fall.

The microclimate in Bellevue is characteristic of the marine west coast, with mild, wet winters and dry summers. This unique climatic condition promotes the growth of crops such as lettuce, broccoli, and kale, which thrive in cooler weather and can often be grown in early spring and fall. However, crops like corn and peppers may struggle in this environment, as they prefer warmer and drier conditions to fully mature, making them less suitable for the sensitive temperature ranges of this region.

What to plant now in Bellevue

In early spring (late March to early April), consider planting cool-season crops such as peas and spinach, as these can be sown directly into your garden as soon as the soil can be worked, ideally before the last frost on April 10.
Late spring (after April 10) is the perfect time to plant warm-weather crops like tomatoes and peppers. Aim to transplant these seedlings outdoors once the risk of frost has passed, giving them ample time to mature before fall.
During the summer months, particularly June and July, maintain a steady watering schedule and consider direct seeding fast-growing crops like radishes and beans, which have a quick turnaround and can be harvested before the end of summer.
As the temperatures begin to cool in late summer (especially September), focus on planting fall crops such as carrots and garlic. Plant these starting in early September, providing enough time to establish before the first frost on October 25.

In Bellevue (198 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 Bellevue

Month	What to do
January	This is a time for planning your garden. Review your seed inventory, consider your crop rotation, and prepare garden beds for the upcoming planting season.
February	Continue preparations by ordering seeds and starting cool-season crops indoors. It's an opportunity to get a jump on your garden by growing seedlings for transplanting.
March	As the soil begins to warm, start direct seeding hardy vegetables like peas and spinach toward the end of the month, while continuing to care for seedlings started indoors.
April	April 10 marks the average last frost date. Prepare to transplant seedlings outdoors and sow more cool-season crops. Monitor temperatures closely and protect tender plants during unexpected cold snaps.
May	May is ideal for planting warm-season crops like tomatoes and peppers. After the last frost date, ensure your plants receive plenty of sunlight and consistent moisture for optimal growth.
June	In June, focus on maintaining your garden. Water regularly, weed your beds, and consider direct seeding succession crops such as bush beans, which thrive in the warm soil.
July	July brings peak summer heat. Stay vigilant with irrigation, and harvest early crops. It’s also time to plant quick-growing varieties like radishes to maximize your harvest before fall.
August	As late summer arrives, keep your garden productive by planting fall crops such as kale. This is also a good time to plan for crop rotation as you clear earlier plantings.
September	In September, start planting root vegetables such as carrots and garlic. This is crucial as the fall frost date of October 25 approaches, giving them time to mature.
October	Prepare for the first frost on October 25 by harvesting any remaining warm-season crops. Consider covering young fall crops with cloth if an early frost threatens.
November	With colder temperatures settling in, tidy your garden by clearing out any debris and preparing your soil for winter. It's a good time to plan for next year's garden.
December	December is a time for reflection and planning. Take stock of your gardening successes and areas for improvement, and start sketching out your ideas for the upcoming season.

Frost dates for Bellevue ZIP codes

ZIP	Last spring frost (50%)	First fall frost (50%)	Zone
98006	April 10	October 25	8b

FAQ

When is the last frost in Bellevue?

The last frost in Bellevue typically occurs around April 10, marking the end of winter and the beginning of the growing season.

What vegetables grow best in Bellevue?

Cool-weather crops such as kale, broccoli, and lettuce thrive in Bellevue's climate, while warmer crops like corn and peppers may struggle to fully mature.

When should I plant tomatoes in Bellevue?

Tomatoes should be planted after the last frost date of April 10, typically in late April or early May to ensure proper growth and yields.

Can I garden year-round in Bellevue?

While year-round gardening is challenging, mild winters allow for growing certain crops in winter, particularly if protected by cloches or cold frames.

How does Plan My Garden help Bellevue gardeners?

Plan My Garden offers tailored advice and resources for Bellevue gardeners, including planting calendars suited to local climate and frost dates, helping you make the most of your gardening efforts.