How many frost-free days does your garden actually get? Enter your ZIP code for the number, the dates behind it, and what it means for your plant choices.
How it’s figured
We subtract the average last spring frost from the average first fall frost at the nearest reporting city. That is the frost-free stretch — the part of the year tender plants can grow outdoors. Frost dates are long-term averages from the nearest of 85 reporting cities. Your ZIP is matched to the closest one, and we show the distance so you know how far that stretch is. Averages are not guarantees: a cold snap can arrive early or late, and hills, valleys, lakes, and city heat all shift real frost dates. ZIP locations come from the US Census Bureau 2024 Gazetteer. Crop timing ranges are typical values compiled from published Extension and almanac growing references; varieties differ. Your seed packet and local Extension office know your varieties and microclimate best.