Root Vegetable

When to Plant Potatoes in Washington

Incredibly satisfying to grow. There's nothing quite like digging up your own potatoes — it's like buried treasure.

The Short Answer

Washington State is the nation's #2 potato producer — the Columbia Basin's volcanic soils with pivot irrigation grow nearly 25% of America's potatoes. Home gardeners on both sides of the Cascades can grow excellent potatoes, though the conditions and challenges differ dramatically.

Washington Frost Dates

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

Region Zones Last Frost (Spring) First Frost (Fall)
Western Washington (Seattle/Tacoma) 8a, 8b Mar 25 - Apr 15 Oct 25 - Nov 15
Puget Sound 8b, 9a Mar 15 - Apr 5 Nov 1 - Nov 20
Eastern Washington 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a Apr 25 - May 15 Sep 25 - Oct 15
Central Washington 6a, 6b, 7a Apr 20 - May 10 Oct 1 - Oct 20

Potatoes Planting Schedule for Washington

Western Washington (Seattle/Tacoma) (Zones 8a, 8b)

Average last frost: Mar 25 - Apr 15 · Average first frost: Oct 25 - Nov 15

Direct Sow
2 wks before frost

Puget Sound (Zones 8b, 9a)

Average last frost: Mar 15 - Apr 5 · Average first frost: Nov 1 - Nov 20

Direct Sow
2 wks before frost

Eastern Washington (Zones 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a)

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

Direct Sow
2 wks before frost

Central Washington (Zones 6a, 6b, 7a)

Average last frost: Apr 20 - May 10 · Average first frost: Oct 1 - Oct 20

Direct Sow
2 wks before frost

Growing Potatoes in Washington

State-Specific Growing Tips

Western Washington: plant from mid-March to early April. The maritime climate provides moderate growing conditions, and late blight pressure is lower than in the humid East thanks to dry summers. Acidic western WA soils (pH 5.5-6.0) are naturally in the ideal range for potatoes. Eastern Washington: plant from mid-April. The volcanic soils with drip irrigation grow potatoes that rival commercial quality. WSU's potato research program is among the world's best — their variety trial data is exceptionally useful.

Recommended Varieties for Washington

Western WA: Yukon Gold, Red Pontiac, All Blue (purple variety that's a fun surprise). Eastern WA: everything — this is where commercial varieties are tested and developed. WSU releases new varieties regularly. Ranger Russet and Umatilla Russet are regional specialties.

Common Challenges in Washington

Western WA: late blight during wet years. Wireworms in some soils. Slugs eat exposed tubers. Eastern WA: Colorado potato beetle. Aphids transmit viruses. Minimal disease thanks to dry climate.

Growing Tips

Plant seed potatoes (not grocery store potatoes) 2-3 weeks before last frost. Hill soil around stems as they grow to increase yield.

Companion Planting

Plant potatoes alongside these companions for better growth:

Beans Corn Cabbage Marigolds

Keep potatoes away from:

Tomatoes Squash Sunflowers

The Bottom Line

Potatoes can be grown successfully in Washington with proper attention to regional frost dates and local growing conditions. Timing varies across the state — Western Washington (Seattle/Tacoma) gardeners work with a last frost around Mar 25 - Apr 15, while Central Washington sees frost end around Apr 20 - May 10. Choose varieties suited to your region, amend your soil based on its specific needs, and monitor for the pests and diseases most common in your area. For exact dates based on your zip code, use our free planting date finder.

Related Guides

Potatoes Growing Guide National planting guide with all states Washington Planting Calendar All plants for Washington Potatoes in Alabama Alabama planting dates Potatoes in Alaska Alaska planting dates Potatoes in Arizona Arizona planting dates Potatoes 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

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