When to Plant Tomatoes in Nevada
America's favorite garden vegetable (technically a fruit). Nothing beats a sun-warmed tomato straight off the vine.
The Short Answer
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 |
Tomatoes Planting Schedule for Nevada
Northern Nevada (Reno) (Zones 6b, 7a)
Average last frost: May 1 - May 20 · Average first frost: Sep 25 - Oct 15
Las Vegas (Zones 8b, 9a, 9b)
Average last frost: Feb 10 - Mar 5 · Average first frost: Nov 10 - Dec 1
Mountain Nevada (Zones 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b)
Average last frost: May 25 - Jun 15 · Average first frost: Aug 25 - Sep 15
Growing Tomatoes in Nevada
Tomatoes in Nevada's Climate
Tomato growing in subtropical zones follows an inverted calendar. Plant from September through February for winter-spring harvest. Summer's extreme heat, humidity, and pest pressure overwhelm tomatoes in these zones. Choose heat-tolerant and disease-resistant varieties — Florida 91, Solar Fire, and Everglades are bred for your conditions. This timing feels backward but works beautifully — your January tomatoes will be the envy of the nation.
Soil Considerations for Nevada
Desert soils — alkaline, low organic matter. Extremely dry. Heavy amendment essential. Irrigation required. Make sure soil has warmed to at least 60°F before planting tomatoes outside.
Nevada Climate & Growing Season
Arid climate. Extreme heat in summer (Las Vegas). Short season at altitude. Very low humidity. Water conservation critical. Tomatoes cannot tolerate any frost, so wait until all frost danger has passed before transplanting outside. Watch local forecasts carefully in spring.
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 tomatoes — transplant timing shifts by several weeks across the state.
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:
Keep tomatoes away from:
The Bottom Line
Last reviewed: March 29, 2026