When to Plant Black-Eyed Susans in Utah
Cheerful golden blooms that attract butterflies and tolerate drought. A backbone of the low-maintenance perennial garden.
The Short Answer
Utah Frost Dates
Your planting dates depend on which part of Utah you're in. Here are the frost date ranges by region:
| Region | Zones | Last Frost (Spring) | First Frost (Fall) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wasatch Front (SLC) | 6a, 6b, 7a | Apr 20 - May 10 | Oct 1 - Oct 20 |
| Mountain Regions | 4a, 4b, 5a | May 25 - Jun 15 | Aug 25 - Sep 15 |
| Southern Utah | 6b, 7a, 7b | Apr 10 - May 1 | Oct 10 - Nov 1 |
Black-Eyed Susans Planting Schedule for Utah
Wasatch Front (SLC) (Zones 6a, 6b, 7a)
Average last frost: Apr 20 - May 10 · Average first frost: Oct 1 - Oct 20
Mountain Regions (Zones 4a, 4b, 5a)
Average last frost: May 25 - Jun 15 · Average first frost: Aug 25 - Sep 15
Southern Utah (Zones 6b, 7a, 7b)
Average last frost: Apr 10 - May 1 · Average first frost: Oct 10 - Nov 1
Growing Black-Eyed Susans in Utah
Black-Eyed Susans in Utah's Climate
Native and perfectly adapted to warm climates. Drought-tolerant once established — ideal for water-wise landscaping. Self-seeds freely. Essential for pollinator gardens and naturalized meadow plantings.
Soil Considerations for Utah
Alkaline desert soils. Low organic matter. Saline soils in some areas. Heavy amendment with compost and sulfur needed.
Utah Climate & Growing Season
Arid climate. Intense sun. Low humidity. Wide temperature swings. Irrigation essential everywhere. Black-Eyed Susans can handle frost well, which is an advantage in Utah's climate. You can push planting dates earlier in spring and extend into fall.
Growing season length varies across Utah: Wasatch Front (SLC) (6a, 6b, 7a) has a last frost around Apr 20 - May 10, while Southern Utah (6b, 7a, 7b) sees frost end around Apr 10 - May 1. This difference matters for black-eyed susans — but black-eyed susans handle frost well, so the timing difference is less critical.
Growing Tips
Leave seed heads standing through winter for birds and visual interest. Self-seeds freely — deadhead if you don't want more.
Companion Planting
Plant black-eyed susans alongside these companions for better growth:
The Bottom Line
Last reviewed: March 29, 2026