When to Plant in Yakima, WA

Yakima, located in Washington, has a median last spring frost date of May 10 and a median first fall frost date of October 1, providing 144 frost-free days annually. This timeframe allows for a growing season that can accommodate various crops, making it an exciting area for gardening enthusiasts. The specific timing of frosts means gardeners can plan their planting schedules carefully to maximize yield and avoid crop failure due to unexpected frosts.

The microclimate in Yakima is classified as interior continental, characterized by cold winters and hot summers. This climate allows certain crops, such as tomatoes, peppers, and corn, to thrive due to the extended warm days during the summer. However, crops like lettuce and spinach may struggle with the high summer temperatures, which can cause them to bolt or become bitter. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for optimizing planting schedules and selecting suitable varieties.

What to plant now in Yakima

In early spring (late March to April), plant cool-season crops like peas and spinach outside as they can handle the cooler soil temperatures and are resilient against light frosts before the last frost date of May 10.
With the last frost date of May 10 in mind, mid-spring is ideal for transplanting warm-season plants like tomatoes, peppers, and zucchini. Plant these crops outdoors in late May for robust growth during the warming season.
During summer (June to early July), focus on maintaining and harvesting your warm-season plants. Continue succession planting for fast-growing crops like radishes and cucumbers to maximize your garden's productivity until the first frost comes around October 1.
In late summer (August to early September), consider planting a fall garden with crops like kale and carrots that can mature before the first frost on October 1. These plants can withstand cooler temperatures and often improve in flavor after exposure to a light frost.

In Yakima (144 frost-free days, a moderate season), 38 of 56 planner crops fit outright, 17 get two plantings, 1 crop is perennial.

Month by month in Yakima

Month	What to do
January	January is a time for planning your garden. Assess last year's crops, research new varieties, and order seeds. Keep your indoor plants thriving, and start dreaming about spring!
February	Continue planning and ordering seeds. Start sowing herbs and some vegetables indoors, like tomatoes and peppers, to get a jumpstart before transplanting in late spring.
March	As the snow melts, begin preparing your garden beds. Early March is suitable for sowing peas and other cool-weather crops directly into the ground.
April	In April, plant cool-season vegetables like lettuce and spinach. Be cautious of frosts, but you can start setting out transplants for hardy plants.
May	With May 10 as the average last frost date, prepare to transplant your warm-season crops after this date, including tomatoes and corn, as they thrive in warmer temperatures.
June	June ushers in warmer weather. Continue to water and care for your crops diligently. This is a great time for side-dressing your plants with nutrients to promote growth.
July	July is peak growing season. Ensure consistent watering and pest management. Harvest early crops and continue planting succession crops for ongoing yields.
August	As summer progresses, keep an eye out for pests. Start considering your fall garden. You can begin seeding crops like carrots and kale for a late harvest.
September	In September, prepare for the cooler months. Finish planting your fall crops and start harvesting summer vegetables before the first fall frost on October 1.
October	October is critical; with the frost date on May 10, finish any harvests. Clean up your garden beds and prepare the soil for winter to ensure a fruitful spring.
November	November is the time for garden maintenance. Mulch beds and protect perennials. Reflect on your gardening successes and start planning for next year.
December	In December, focus on indoor gardening projects. It's a perfect time to start seed catalogs and dream about the next growing season while enjoying the holidays.

Frost dates for Yakima ZIP codes

ZIP	Last spring frost (50%)	First fall frost (50%)	Zone
98902	May 10	October 1	7a
98903	May 10	October 1	7a

FAQ

When is the last frost in Yakima?

The last frost in Yakima typically occurs around May 10, making this an important date for gardeners planning their planting schedules.

What vegetables grow best in Yakima?

Tomatoes, peppers, and corn thrive well in Yakima due to its hot summers, while cool-season crops like lettuce may struggle in the heat.

When should I plant tomatoes in Yakima?

Transplant tomatoes after the last frost date of May 10 for the best growth and yield during the warm summer months.

Can I garden year-round in Yakima?

While winters are cold, gardeners can grow indoors or start early spring crops outdoors once the risk of frost has passed.

How does Plan My Garden help Yakima gardeners?

Plan My Garden provides tailored advice on planting schedules, frost dates, and crop choices specific to Yakima’s unique growing conditions.