Perennial Flower

When to Plant Lavender in Nevada

Fragrant, drought-tolerant, and beloved by pollinators. Once established, lavender rewards you for years.

The Short Answer

In Nevada, plant lavender based on your regional frost dates. Northern Nevada (Reno) has a last frost around May 1 - May 20, while Mountain Nevada sees frost end around May 25 - Jun 15. Arid climate. Extreme heat in summer (Las Vegas). Short season at altitude. Very low humidity. Water conservation...

Nevada Frost Dates

Your planting dates depend on which part of Nevada you're in. Here are the frost date ranges by region:

Region Zones Last Frost (Spring) First Frost (Fall)
Northern Nevada (Reno) 6b, 7a May 1 - May 20 Sep 25 - Oct 15
Las Vegas 8b, 9a, 9b Feb 10 - Mar 5 Nov 10 - Dec 1
Mountain Nevada 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b May 25 - Jun 15 Aug 25 - Sep 15

Lavender Planting Schedule for Nevada

Northern Nevada (Reno) (Zones 6b, 7a)

Average last frost: May 1 - May 20 · Average first frost: Sep 25 - Oct 15

Start Seeds Indoors
10 wks before frost
Transplant Outside
2 wks after frost

Las Vegas (Zones 8b, 9a, 9b)

Average last frost: Feb 10 - Mar 5 · Average first frost: Nov 10 - Dec 1

Start Seeds Indoors
10 wks before frost
Transplant Outside
2 wks after frost

Mountain Nevada (Zones 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b)

Average last frost: May 25 - Jun 15 · Average first frost: Aug 25 - Sep 15

Start Seeds Indoors
10 wks before frost
Transplant Outside
2 wks after frost

Growing Lavender in Nevada

Lavender in Nevada's Climate

Traditional lavender struggles in subtropical humidity and warm winters. Phenomenal is the only variety with a reasonable chance in north Florida and coastal zones 9a. South of zone 9a, lavender is not viable. Consider rosemary as a drought-tolerant, fragrant Mediterranean alternative.

Soil Considerations for Nevada

Desert soils — alkaline, low organic matter. Extremely dry. Heavy amendment essential. Irrigation required.

Nevada Climate & Growing Season

Arid climate. Extreme heat in summer (Las Vegas). Short season at altitude. Very low humidity. Water conservation critical.

Growing season length varies across Nevada: Northern Nevada (Reno) (6b, 7a) has a last frost around May 1 - May 20, while Mountain Nevada (4a, 4b, 5a, 5b) sees frost end around May 25 - Jun 15. This difference matters for lavender — adjust your planting dates to match your specific region.

Growing Tips

Needs excellent drainage — clay soil is lavender's enemy. Don't prune into old wood. English varieties (Lavandula angustifolia) are hardiest.

Companion Planting

Plant lavender alongside these companions for better growth:

Roses Thyme Sage

The Bottom Line

Lavender can be grown successfully across Nevada, but your exact planting dates depend on which region you're in. Northern Nevada (Reno) gardeners should plan around a May 1 - May 20 last frost, while those in Mountain Nevada can typically plant later. For exact dates based on your zip code, use our free planting date finder.

Related Guides

Lavender Growing Guide National planting guide with all states Nevada Planting Calendar All plants for Nevada Lavender in Alabama Alabama planting dates Lavender in Alaska Alaska planting dates Lavender in Arizona Arizona planting dates Lavender in Arkansas Arkansas planting dates
Note: All dates are based on NOAA 30-year Climate Normals and represent historical averages, not predictions for any specific year. Always check your local weather forecast before planting frost-sensitive crops. Learn about our data sources.

Last reviewed: March 29, 2026

Ready to Start Planting?

Enter your zip code and pick your plant. We'll tell you exactly when to plant, start seeds, and harvest — based on where you live.

Find Your Planting Dates