When to Plant Peas in Utah
One of the earliest crops you can plant. Kids love picking and eating them right off the vine.
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 |
Peas 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 Peas in Utah
Peas in Utah's Climate
Peas are a late-winter crop in warm climates. Sow from January through February and harvest before spring heat arrives. The window is narrow — once temperatures hit 80°F, peas decline within days. For warm-season alternatives, grow Southern peas (black-eyed peas) which thrive in conditions that kill garden peas.
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. Peas 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 peas — but peas handle frost well, so the timing difference is less critical.
Growing Tips
Direct sow as early as the soil can be worked. Inoculate with rhizobium for bigger harvests. Provide a trellis for climbing varieties.
Companion Planting
Plant peas alongside these companions for better growth:
Keep peas away from:
The Bottom Line
Last reviewed: March 29, 2026