Warm-Season Vegetable

When to Plant Tomatoes in California

America's favorite garden vegetable (technically a fruit). Nothing beats a sun-warmed tomato straight off the vine.

The Short Answer

California's extraordinary climate diversity means there is no single answer to 'when to plant tomatoes in California.' A Central Valley gardener and a mountain gardener at 6,000 feet elevation might as well be in different countries. Coastal fog, inland heat, desert extremes, and mountain seasons all coexist within state lines. The good news: somewhere in California, it's almost always a good time to plant tomatoes.

California Frost Dates

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

Region Zones Last Frost (Spring) First Frost (Fall)
Northern California Mountains 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b May 1 - May 25 Sep 20 - Oct 15
Central Valley 9a, 9b Feb 10 - Mar 1 Nov 15 - Dec 5
Southern California Coast 10a, 10b, 11a Jan 1 - Feb 1 Dec 10 - Jan 1
Bay Area 9b, 10a Jan 20 - Feb 15 Nov 25 - Dec 15

Tomatoes Planting Schedule for California

Northern California Mountains (Zones 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b)

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

Start Seeds Indoors
6 wks before frost
Transplant Outside
2 wks after frost
Direct Sow
2 wks after frost

Central Valley (Zones 9a, 9b)

Average last frost: Feb 10 - Mar 1 · Average first frost: Nov 15 - Dec 5

Start Seeds Indoors
6 wks before frost
Transplant Outside
2 wks after frost
Direct Sow
2 wks after frost

Southern California Coast (Zones 10a, 10b, 11a)

Average last frost: Jan 1 - Feb 1 · Average first frost: Dec 10 - Jan 1

Start Seeds Indoors
6 wks before frost
Transplant Outside
2 wks after frost
Direct Sow
2 wks after frost

Bay Area (Zones 9b, 10a)

Average last frost: Jan 20 - Feb 15 · Average first frost: Nov 25 - Dec 15

Start Seeds Indoors
6 wks before frost
Transplant Outside
2 wks after frost
Direct Sow
2 wks after frost

Growing Tomatoes in California

State-Specific Growing Tips

In the Central Valley (Zones 9a-9b), transplant tomatoes as early as late February through March. The long, hot growing season means you can grow any variety, including long-season heirlooms. Bay Area gardeners (Zone 10a) contend with summer fog that cools temperatures — choose varieties that set fruit in cooler conditions, and plant in the warmest microclimate you can find (south-facing walls, sheltered patios). Inland Southern California (Zones 9b-10a) can plant in February for an early start, but extreme summer heat above 100°F will cause blossom drop from June through August — time your planting for harvest before the worst heat. Mountain communities above 4,000 feet follow a timeline more like the Midwest, transplanting in late May or June.

Recommended Varieties for California

California's Master Gardener programs recommend different varieties by region. Fog belt: Stupice, Early Girl, and San Francisco Fog (bred specifically for coastal California). Central Valley: any variety thrives — try Brandywine, Cherokee Purple, and San Marzano. Desert regions: Heat Master, Solar Fire, and cherry varieties. Mountains: early types like Glacier, Stupice, and Fourth of July.

Common Challenges in California

Tomato hornworms, whiteflies, and aphids are common statewide. In the Central Valley, spider mites thrive in hot, dry conditions — overhead misting can help (unlike in humid states where this would encourage disease). Late blight is rare in California's dry summers but curly top virus, spread by beet leafhoppers, is a significant issue in the Central Valley and desert regions. Water management is paramount — California's drought cycles mean drip irrigation is both practical and environmentally responsible.

Growing Tips

Pinch off suckers for indeterminate varieties. Stake or cage for best results. Water at the base, not overhead, to prevent blight.

Companion Planting

Plant tomatoes alongside these companions for better growth:

Basil Carrots Peppers Marigolds

Keep tomatoes away from:

Brassicas Fennel Dill

The Bottom Line

Tomatoes can be grown successfully in California with proper attention to regional frost dates and local growing conditions. Timing varies across the state — Northern California Mountains gardeners work with a last frost around May 1 - May 25, while Bay Area sees frost end around Jan 20 - Feb 15. 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

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