When to Plant in Bothell, WA

In Bothell, Washington, gardeners have the advantage of a growing season that typically spans from the median last spring frost date of April 6 to the median first fall frost date of October 26, offering approximately 203 frost-free days for planting. This timeframe allows for a diverse range of crops to be sown and harvested. Understanding these frost dates is crucial for planning your planting schedule, ensuring that you maximize your growing potential while minimizing the risk of frost damage to your plants.

The climate in Bothell is characterized as marine west coast, which means it experiences mild, wet winters and dry summers. This unique microclimate benefits certain crops significantly. For instance, berries such as blueberries and raspberries thrive due to the mild temperatures and abundant moisture available in spring. Leafy greens like kale and Swiss chard also perform very well, often growing efficiently during the cooler, wetter months. On the other hand, crops that prefer high heat, such as tomatoes and peppers, may struggle with inconsistencies in temperature and moisture, making them more challenging to cultivate to their fullest potential.

What to plant now in Bothell

Spring planting in Bothell runs from mid-March to early April. It's a good time to sow cool-season crops such as peas, spinach, and radishes. Make sure to monitor for frost around April 6 to protect tender seedlings as the last spring frost date approaches.
As summer arrives, transition to planting heat-loving crops from mid-May to early June. This period is perfect for tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants, which flourish with the warm summer temperatures in Bothell and can benefit from the 203 frost-free days.
Autumn, between late September and early October, is optimal for sowing overwintering crops. Consider planting garlic or winter cover crops, which will establish before the first fall frost on October 26, providing earlier spring harvests and enhancing soil health.
During winter, while the garden may seem dormant, it's a great time for planning. This season, focus on pruning fruit trees, maintaining garden tools, and considering what varieties to plant next season when spring arrives.

In Bothell (203 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 Bothell

Month	What to do
January	January in Bothell is generally cold and damp. It’s a good time to review the past gardening year and plan for spring. Keep your gardening supplies in order and prepare your seed lists.
February	As February progresses, start indoor seed preparation for cool-season crops. Begin sowing seeds for tomatoes and peppers indoors, so they are ready to transplant after the last frost.
March	March marks the beginning of springtime preparations. You can start direct sowing in the garden, planting peas and spinach, but watch the weather forecasts for the last frost date of April 6.
April	By early April, many frost-sensitive plants should be sheltered or moved indoors as the median last spring frost date is around April 6. After this date, you can plant cucumbers and beans safely.
May	May heralds warmer temperatures for Bothell, making it ideal for planting tomatoes and peppers. Ensure your garden beds are well-prepared to take full advantage of the 203 frost-free days ahead.
June	June is the height of the growing season. Focus on maintaining moisture levels as summer sets in, and consider side-dressing established plants with compost to support their growth.
July	July continues to offer warm and dry conditions. Be vigilant about watering to ensure consistent moisture for crops like tomatoes and squash, and control weeds that compete for resources.
August	In August, begin planning for fall crops. Late summer is ideal for sowing quick-maturing vegetables like radishes and turnips, taking advantage of the remaining warm days.
September	September is the transition month. As temperatures cool, harvest summer crops and prepare your soil for fall planting. Consider sowing winter cover crops as they improve soil health.
October	As October arrives, be mindful of the first fall frost date of October 26. Finish harvesting remaining crops and plant garlic before the soil freezes to ensure a ready crop in spring.
November	November in Bothell is typically cool and wet. Focus on cleaning up the garden, mulching, and preparing for winter. It’s also an excellent time to plan for the next gardening season.
December	December is a quiet month for gardening. Use this time to reflect on your gardening successes and failures, and consider what new varieties you might want to try in the upcoming year.

Frost dates for Bothell ZIP codes

ZIP	Last spring frost (50%)	First fall frost (50%)	Zone
98012	April 6	October 26	8b

FAQ

When is the last frost in Bothell?

The last frost in Bothell typically occurs around April 6, marking an important date for gardeners. Monitor your local weather, especially as this date approaches.

What vegetables grow best in Bothell?

In Bothell, vegetables like kale, blueberries, and carrots thrive in the marine west coast climate, thanks to the mild, wet winters and ample moisture throughout the year.

When should I plant tomatoes in Bothell?

For the best results, plant tomatoes in Bothell starting in mid-May after the last frost date has passed. Ensure they are well-acclimated before transplanting.

Can I garden year-round in Bothell?

Yes, while winter can slow down gardening in Bothell, many gardeners plant overwintering crops like garlic and cover crops to maintain soil health throughout the colder months.

How does Plan My Garden help Bothell gardeners?

Plan My Garden offers tailored advice and local insights for Bothell gardeners, helping them understand frost dates, planting schedules, and crop selection specific to the marine west coast climate.