When To Plant Vegetables In Oregon

Knowing when to plant vegetables in Oregon is the first step to a successful garden. Our Oregon vegetable planting guide will help you navigate the state’s unique climates, from the rainy coast to the high desert.

Oregon’s gardening seasons are distinct. The key is understanding your local frost dates and microclimate. This guide provides a clear framework to get your seeds and transplants in the ground at the right time.

Your planting schedule hinges on one major factor: your region. Oregon has three primary gardening zones, each with its own rhythm.

Oregon’s Major Growing Regions

The state is divided into the Coastal, Western Valleys, and High Desert regions. Your location determines your first and last frost dates, which are critical for planning.

Coastal Region: Mild, wet winters and cool summers. Long growing season with minimal extreme heat, but slower warm-up in spring.
Western Valleys (Willamette, Rogue, etc.): The most common garden zone. Wet winters, dry summers. Prime growing conditions with a predictable frost-free period from late April to October.
High Desert (East of the Cascades): Short, hot summers and cold winters. The growing season is compact and intense, requiring careful timing.

Understanding Your Frost Dates

Your average last spring frost and first fall frost dates create your growing window. These are estimates, but vital guides.

Western Valleys: Last frost around April 20–May 1. First frost around October 15–November 1.
Coastal: Last frost around April 15–30. First frost around October 20–November 10.
High Desert: Last frost around May 15–June 1. First frost around September 10–20.

Always check local resources like your county extension office for the most accurate dates for your town.

Vegetable Planting Calendars by Season

We group vegetables by their temperature preferences. This makes planning your garden much simpler.

Cool-Season Crops (Plant in Early Spring & Fall)

These vegetables tolerate frost and even taste better in cool weather. They are your first plantings in spring and your last in fall.

Direct Seed in Early Spring (March–April): Peas, spinach, kale, arugula, radishes, carrots, beets, and turnips. You can plant these as soon as the soil is workable.
Transplants for Spring (April–May): Broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, lettuce, and Swiss chard. Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks earlier or buy starts.
Fall Planting (July–August): For a fall harvest, sow seeds for carrots, beets, and greens in mid-to-late summer. Many gardeners find there fall crops are sweeter after a light frost.

Warm-Season Crops (Plant After Last Frost)

These vegetables need warm soil and air. Planting them too early will stunt growth. Wait until all danger of frost has passed.

Direct Seed after Last Frost (Mid-May–June): Beans, corn, cucumber, squash, and melons. Soil temperature should be at least 60–65°F for good germination.
Transplants after Last Frost (Late May–June): Tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, and basil. These need night temperatures consistently above 50°F. You can give them a head start by using season extenders like cloches or wall-of-waters.

Step-by-Step Monthly Planting Guide

This general timeline is based on the Western Valleys region. Adjust by 2-4 weeks later for the Coast and High Desert.

February – March: The Indoor Start

This is prep time. Focus on indoor seeding and garden planning.

Start seeds indoors for broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, early lettuce, and leeks.
Prepare garden beds by adding compost when the soil is not too wet.
If the weather is mild, you can direct sow peas and spinach outdoors in late March.

April: Spring Planting Begins

The garden starts to wake up. Soil begins to warm in the valleys.

Direct sow carrots, radishes, beets, kale, and chard.
Plant potato pieces and onion sets.
Harden off and transplant your early-season starts (broccoli, cabbage) outdoors.
Start seeds indoors for tomatoes and peppers.

May: The Main Planting Month

This is the busiest month for planting after the last frost date passes.

After your frost date, direct sow beans, corn, and squash.
Transplant tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, and basil outdoors.
Continue successive planting of lettuce and radishes for a continuous harvest.

June – July: Summer Maintenance & Fall Starts

Shift focus to caring for growing plants and planning for fall.

Direct sow successions of beans and corn for extended harvest.
In mid-to-late July, start sowing seeds for fall crops: carrots, beets, broccoli, and kale.
Ensure consistent watering as summer droughts begin.

August – September: Fall Garden Transition

Harvest summer crops and prepare for the second season.

Transplant fall broccoli and cabbage starts.
Direct sow spinach, arugula, and overwintering kale.
Harvest winter squash and potatoes as plants die back.

Tips for Success in Oregon Gardens

A few local strategies can make a huge difference in your garden’s productivity.

Use Season Extenders: Cloches, cold frames, and row cover protect early and late plantings from frost, giving you extra weeks of growth.
Improve Your Soil: Oregon’s clay soils benefit from annual additions of compost. This improves drainage and fertility.
Practice Crop Rotation: Avoid planting the same family of vegetables in the same spot each year to prevent pest and disease buildup.
Water Wisely: Use drip irrigation or soaker hoses to conserve water and keep leaves dry, reducing fungal disease.
Know Your Microclimate: A south-facing wall creates a warm pocket. A low spot collects frost. Observe your own yard’s unique conditions.

Common Questions About Planting Vegetables in Oregon

When is it safe to plant tomatoes outside in Oregon?

For the Western Valleys, wait until late May. Night temperatures should reliably stay above 50°F. Using protection like a wall-of-water can allow for planting 2-3 weeks earlier.

What vegetables can I plant in July in Oregon?

July is perfect for starting your fall garden. Plant carrots, beets, bush beans, and greens like kale and chard. It’s also time to sow seeds for fall broccoli and cauliflower.

How do I find my specific planting zone in Oregon?

Use the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone map, but also consult the Oregon State University Extension Service guides. They offer detailed regional planting calendars that are more accurate for our state’s conditions than the USDA map alone.

Can I grow vegetables year-round in Oregon?

Yes, with planning. In mild coastal and valley areas, cold-hardy greens like kale, spinach, and some lettuces can survive winter under a simple hoop house or cold frame, providing harvests through the colder months.

Gardening in Oregon is a rewarding journey tied closely to the seasons. By following this guide and observing your own garden’s conditions, you’ll develop a reliable sense of when to plant vegetables in Oregon for bountiful harvests spring through fall. Remember, local gardeners and your county extension office are invaluable resources for tips specific to your area.