Kern County, CA — Planting Guide
Top priorities for Kern County, California gardeners in May
Each item below is timed to Kern County, California's frost dates and soil temperatures. Skip nothing, stress about nothing.
-
Bring in the basil, carrots, and cucumber
If you can't use it all right away, check the food-preservation section of your planner.
Coming up in June — start thinking about
- First harvests: basil, cucumber, and green beans
Kern County is in USDA Zone 9b. The average last spring frost is February 28 and the first fall frost is November 29, giving you a growing season of approximately 275 days.
At an elevation of 389 ft, Kern County receives approximately 16.9 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 102°F with winter lows around 42°F. The predominant soil type is Loam.
Based on 27 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 80 days year to year — ranging from January 17 in warm years to April 7 in cold years. The growing season is trending longer by about 7.95 days per decade. Kern County scores 44/100 (Moderate) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
9b (°F to °F min)
❄️ Last Frost
February 28
🍂 First Frost
November 29
📅 Growing Season
275 days
⛰️ Elevation
389 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
16.9 in
Monthly Watering Calendar
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 3.9 in | 10 days | — | None |
| Feb | 3.4 in | 10 days | 0.9 in | Moderate |
| Mar | 2.4 in | 8 days | 1.9 in | High |
| Apr | 1.2 in | 5 days | 3.1 in | Critical |
| May | 0.5 in | 2 days | 3.8 in | Critical |
| Jun | 0.1 in | 1 days | 4.2 in | Critical |
| Jul | 0 in | 0 days | 4.3 in | Critical |
| Aug | 0 in | 0 days | 4.3 in | Critical |
| Sep | 0.2 in | 1 days | 4.1 in | Critical |
| Oct | 0.7 in | 3 days | 3.6 in | Critical |
| Nov | 1.7 in | 6 days | 2.6 in | High |
| Dec | 2.8 in | 9 days | — | None |
Annual total: 16.9 in. Water needs vary by crop — tomatoes need ~1.2"/week while herbs like rosemary need only 0.3"/week. Check individual plant pages for crop-specific water budgets that factor in your county's rainfall and soil drainage.
Kern County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.2-7.7
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 27 years of NOAA weather station data from 3 stations
Beginners: Plant frost-sensitive crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) after the "Safe" date on the left. Harvest or cover them before the "Protect by" date on the right. Hardy crops (lettuce, peas, kale) can go in the yellow transition zones.
How to read this table: "Conservative" means you're safe from frost 9 out of 10 years — best for beginners and frost-sensitive crops. "Average year" is the typical date. "Aggressive" means only 1 in 10 years is that warm — experienced gardeners with frost protection can try these dates.
| Planting Strategy | Last Spring Frost | First Fall Frost | Frost-Free Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conservative (safest) | Apr 7 | Dec 19 | 256 days |
| Cautious | Mar 12 | Dec 7 | 270 days |
| Average year | Feb 28 | Nov 29 | 274 days |
| Optimistic | Feb 20 | Nov 21 | 274 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Jan 17 | Nov 2 | 289 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±80 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Yes — growing seasons are getting longer here (about 8 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Kern County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Kern County
Free expert help is closer than you think. Your county's cooperative extension office connects you with trained gardeners, soil testing labs, and local programs — all specific to Kern County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Kern County University of California Cooperative Extension Extension Office
Phone: 530-750-1200
Visit Extension Office Website →
Extension offices are run by land-grant universities and funded by the USDA. Their advice is free, research-based, and tailored to your county's specific conditions.
Master Gardener Program
Free gardening help from trained volunteers
Master Gardeners are community volunteers who complete 40–60 hours of university horticultural training. They answer gardening questions, diagnose plant problems, and offer workshops — all free.
Many extension offices run a Master Gardener hotline where you can call or email with photos of plant problems for free diagnosis.
Soil Testing
Available through your extension office
Before amending your soil, get it tested. Your extension office offers soil testing (typically $10–$25) that tells you exact pH, nutrient levels, and amendment recommendations specific to what you want to grow.
Services Available in Kern County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Kern County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Kern County's soil and climate that big-box stores can't. Plants from local growers are typically hardier because they're already acclimated to your zone.
How to Find Them
Search for "nurseries near Kern County CA" or "garden center Kern County" on Google Maps. Also check with your extension office — they often maintain lists of reputable local nurseries and plant sales.
Community gardens & gardening groups
Community gardens are a great way to learn from experienced gardeners in your area, especially if you're limited on space. Search "community garden Kern County CA" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Kern County Gardeners" or "California Gardening" are also excellent for local advice and plant swaps.
What to Plant After Your Harvest
After your first crops finish, use the remaining frost-free days to grow a second round.
Show 6 more succession options
Sunlight & Day Length
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Longest Day
14.4 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.6 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
13.2 hr/day peak (summer)
Peak sun hours (green dashed line below) account for cloud cover — this is the usable direct sunlight your garden actually receives. Most vegetables need 6+ peak sun hours.
Onion tip: Day-neutral onion varieties like Candy, Cabernet, and Sierra Blanca perform best in your day-length range.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Daylight Hours | Peak Sun Hours | Day Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 9.9 hr | 6 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.7 hr | 6.6 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 7.4 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.9 hr | 9.4 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.9 hr | 10.6 hr | Neutral |
| June | 14.4 hr | 13.2 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.2 hr | 12.5 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.3 hr | 12.6 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 10.7 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.1 hr | 8.6 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.1 hr | 6.1 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.6 hr | 5.3 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting Calendar
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from Apr through Nov.
Best Month to Compost
Apr
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
12 months
Nearly year-round composting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 53°F | 59°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Feb | 52°F | 58°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Mar | 57°F | 63°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Apr | 65°F | 69°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| May | 78°F | 75°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 85°F | 82°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 93°F | 89°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 95°F | 90°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 89°F | 89°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 79°F | 82°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 67°F | 73°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Dec | 56°F | 64°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
Highlighted rows = soil 60°F+ (safe for warm-season transplants). Compost finishes fastest during peak activity months.
Pest & Disease Pressure in Kern County
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Insect Pest Pressure
High — expect multiple pest generations. Preventative measures essential.
Disease Risk
Low disease risk — dry conditions reduce fungal problems.
Seasonal Risk
View 6 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | High | Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov |
| Whiteflies | High | Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov |
| Spider mites | High | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Fire ants | High | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov |
| Thrips | Moderate | Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Leaf miners | Moderate | Mar, Apr, May, Jun |
Organic pest management tips
- Use row covers on susceptible crops during peak pest months
- Apply neem oil preventatively every 7-14 days during active pest season
- Interplant with strong-scented herbs (basil, marigold) to confuse pests
- Hand-pick larger pests (beetles, caterpillars) in early morning when they're sluggish
- Practice crop rotation — never plant the same family in the same spot within 3 years
Cover Crops for Kern County
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with county-specific planting dates.
Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Mar 9 | Oct 4 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Mar 5 | Sep 27 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Mar 8 | Sep 20 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Feb 1 | Oct 4 | ✓ Yes | Living mulch, fixes nitrogen, permanent ground cover |
Summer Cover Crops (1 options) — Fill gaps and suppress weeds between plantings
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sunflowers | Mar 29 | Nov 1 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Fall Cover Crops (4 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austrian winter peas | Sep 26 | Feb 14 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Oct 7 | Feb 14 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Oct 11 | Feb 7 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Sep 5 | Feb 14 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
Wind & Microclimate
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 11 mph Summer: 11 mph
Fall: 7 mph Winter: 8 mph
Prevailing wind: W. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
4.5/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Moderate
Some terrain variation (914 ft range). Garden on slopes or higher ground if possible to avoid late-season frost pockets.
Rainwater Harvesting Potential
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Annual Collection
8,422 gal
Per 1,000 sq ft of roof area (at 80% collection efficiency)
Recommended Setup
8 rain barrels (55 gal each)
For a typical 500 sq ft garden. Serious collectors: consider a 2,500 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
Jan, Feb, Mar, Dec
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
Dry months when you'll rely on stored water — size your storage for this gap.
Rainwater collection tips for your area
- Your county receives approximately 16.9 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 8,422 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- In your dry climate, every drop counts — consider a larger cistern system
- Position collection tanks in shade to reduce evaporation and algae growth
Soil & Growing Conditions in Kern County
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH 6.2–7.7 · Excessively Drained drainage
Native soil is well-suited to most vegetables and herbs with regular compost additions.
Watering Needs
Drought stress: 7.5/10
High drought stress. Consistent irrigation is essential — consider drip systems, heavy mulch, and drought-tolerant varieties.
Season Tips
275-day frost-free season
Your long season supports multiple successions and heat-demanding crops like melons, sweet potatoes, and peppers. Plant warm-season crops as soon as soil warms.
Your Free Printable Garden Planner
Plan every bed, every planting, every harvest — in one place. This 24-page printable includes your zone's planting calendar, a month-by-month task list, a seed inventory tracker, a harvest log, and succession-planting charts. Built to print, write in, and actually use all season.
Recommended for Your Garden
Reduce heat stress and sun scorch in hot climates with UV-stabilized shade cloth.
Test your soil pH, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium levels before planting.
Get instant, accurate soil pH readings to fine-tune your amendments.
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Kern County
115 vegetables that grow well in Zone 9b with planting dates for Kern County.
Show all 115 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Jan 31 | Feb 28 | Mar 7 | May 30 – Jul 4 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Jan 17 | Feb 28 | Mar 7 | Jun 6 – Jul 25 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Mar 14 | Jul 18 – Sep 26 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Jan 31 | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Apr 4 – Jun 6 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Mar 14 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Feb 7 | — | Apr 4 – May 2 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Jan 31 | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Jan 17 | Feb 28 | Mar 7 | May 9 – Jun 20 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Mar 7 | — | Jun 6 – Jul 25 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Jan 31 | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Apr 11 – May 16 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Jan 31 | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | May 2 – Jun 13 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Jan 31 | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Apr 11 – May 16 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Jan 31 | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | May 30 – Jul 25 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Jan 31 | Feb 28 | Mar 7 | Jun 6 – Jul 11 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Jan 31 | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | May 2 – Jun 27 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Jan 17 | Feb 28 | Mar 7 | May 30 – Jul 25 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Mar 14 | Jul 18 – Aug 29 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Feb 7 | — | Apr 11 – May 16 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Jan 31 | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Apr 25 – Jun 27 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Jan 31 | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Jun 13 – Jul 18 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Jan 31 | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | May 23 – Jul 18 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Jan 31 | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | May 2 – Jun 13 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Jan 31 | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Apr 25 – Jun 13 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Jan 17 | Feb 28 | Mar 7 | Jul 11 – Sep 19 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Jan 31 | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | May 23 – Jul 4 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Jan 31 | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | May 2 – Jun 13 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Jan 31 | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Apr 25 – May 23 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Jan 17 | Feb 28 | Mar 7 | May 30 – Jul 4 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Jan 31 | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Apr 25 – Jun 27 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Mar 7 | — | May 9 – Jul 4 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Mar 7 | — | May 9 – Jun 20 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Jan 31 | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Mar 14 – Apr 4 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Jan 31 | Feb 28 | Mar 7 | Apr 25 – May 23 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Feb 7 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 12 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Jan 31 | Feb 28 | Mar 7 | May 2 – Jun 27 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Feb 7 | — | Apr 4 – May 2 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Jan 31 | Feb 28 | Mar 7 | May 30 – Jul 4 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Mar 7 | — | May 23 – Jul 4 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Jan 17 | Feb 28 | Mar 7 | May 16 – Jul 18 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Jan 31 | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Apr 18 – May 23 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Jan 31 | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Apr 25 – May 23 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Jan 31 | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | May 16 – Jun 27 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Jan 17 | Feb 28 | Mar 7 | May 9 – Jun 20 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Jan 17 | Feb 28 | Mar 7 | Nov 7 – Jan 2 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Mar 7 | — | May 2 – Jun 27 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Mar 14 | Jul 18 – Sep 26 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Jan 17 | Feb 28 | Mar 7 | May 16 – Aug 22 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Jan 31 | Feb 28 | Mar 7 | Jun 20 – Jul 25 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Jan 17 | Feb 28 | Mar 7 | Jul 11 – Sep 19 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Jan 31 | Feb 28 | Mar 7 | Jun 6 – Jul 4 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Jan 31 | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Apr 18 – May 16 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Jan 31 | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Apr 25 – Jun 20 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Mar 7 | — | Jun 6 – Jul 11 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Jan 31 | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Apr 18 – May 23 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Jan 31 | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Apr 4 – May 9 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Jan 31 | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | May 30 – Aug 15 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Jan 31 | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | May 23 – Jul 4 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Jan 31 | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Apr 4 – Jun 13 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Mar 7 | — | May 9 – Jun 20 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Jan 17 | Feb 28 | Mar 7 | Jun 20 – Aug 22 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Jan 17 | Feb 28 | Mar 7 | Jun 6 – Aug 22 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Jan 31 | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Apr 11 – May 16 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Jan 17 | Feb 28 | Mar 7 | May 2 – May 30 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Jan 31 | Feb 28 | Mar 7 | May 16 – Jul 4 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Jan 31 | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Mar 7 – Apr 4 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Jan 31 | Feb 7 | Feb 21 | Apr 18 – Jun 13 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Jan 31 | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Apr 4 – May 2 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Jan 31 | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Apr 4 – Jun 6 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Jan 31 | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Apr 25 – May 30 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Jan 17 | Feb 28 | Mar 7 | May 2 – May 30 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Jan 17 | Feb 28 | Mar 7 | May 2 – Jun 27 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Jan 31 | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | May 30 – Jul 18 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Jan 31 | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Apr 11 – May 9 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Feb 7 | — | May 23 – Jul 4 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Jan 31 | Feb 28 | Mar 7 | Apr 25 – May 23 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Jan 31 | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Apr 25 – Jun 20 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Jan 17 | Feb 28 | Mar 7 | May 9 – Jul 18 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Jan 17 | Feb 28 | Mar 7 | May 2 – Jun 27 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Jan 17 | Feb 28 | Mar 7 | May 16 – Jul 25 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Jan 31 | Feb 28 | Mar 7 | Jun 6 – Jul 25 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Jan 31 | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Apr 11 – May 16 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Jan 31 | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | May 2 – Jun 6 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Feb 7 | — | Mar 7 – Mar 28 | 22–35 |
| Romanesco | Jan 31 | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | May 16 – Jun 27 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Feb 7 | — | May 2 – Jun 6 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Feb 7 | — | May 23 – Jul 4 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Jan 31 | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | May 9 – Jul 4 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Jan 31 | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Apr 25 – May 23 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Jan 17 | Feb 28 | Mar 7 | May 9 – Jun 13 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Jan 31 | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | May 30 – Jul 18 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Jan 17 | Mar 7 | Mar 7 | May 2 – Jun 27 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Jan 17 | Feb 28 | Mar 7 | May 2 – Jun 27 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Jan 31 | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Apr 25 – Jun 20 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Mar 7 | — | May 30 – Jul 25 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Jan 31 | Feb 28 | Mar 7 | Jun 6 – Jul 4 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Jan 31 | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Apr 4 – Jun 6 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Jan 31 | Feb 28 | Mar 7 | Apr 25 – Jun 27 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Jan 31 | Feb 28 | Mar 7 | May 30 – Jul 25 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Mar 14 | Jul 4 – Aug 29 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Jan 17 | Feb 28 | Mar 7 | May 16 – Jul 4 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Mar 7 | — | May 9 – Jun 20 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Jan 17 | Feb 28 | Mar 7 | Jun 6 – Jul 25 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Jan 31 | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Apr 4 – May 9 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Jan 17 | Feb 28 | Mar 7 | May 9 – Jul 18 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Jan 17 | Feb 28 | Mar 7 | May 9 – Jul 18 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Jan 17 | Feb 28 | Mar 7 | Nov 7 – Jan 2 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Feb 7 | — | Mar 21 – Apr 25 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Jan 31 | Feb 7 | Feb 28 | Apr 11 – May 16 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Jan 31 | Feb 28 | Mar 7 | May 16 – Jul 4 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Mar 7 | — | May 2 – Jun 27 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Jan 17 | Feb 28 | Mar 7 | Jun 6 – Jul 25 | 90–120 |
| Yam | Jan 17 | Feb 28 | Mar 7 | Sep 5 – Jan 2 | 180–330 |
| Yard Long Beans | Jan 17 | Feb 28 | Mar 7 | May 2 – Jun 13 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Jan 31 | Feb 28 | Mar 7 | Apr 25 – Jun 20 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Kern County
24 fruits that grow well in Zone 9b with planting dates for Kern County.
Show all 24 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Mar 14 | Jun 13 – Sep 26 | 90–180 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Mar 14 | — | 365–730 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Mar 14 | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Mar 14 | May 23 – Jun 27 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Mar 14 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Dragon Fruit | — | — | Mar 14 | — | 365–730 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Mar 14 | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Mar 14 | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Mar 14 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Mar 14 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Mar 14 | May 23 – Jul 18 | 65–80 |
| Guava | — | — | Mar 14 | — | 365–730 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Mar 14 | Jun 6 – Jul 18 | 80–110 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Mar 14 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | Mar 14 | — | 730–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Mar 14 | — | 730–1825 |
| Passion Fruit | — | — | Mar 14 | — | 365–545 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Mar 14 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Mar 14 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Mar 14 | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Mar 14 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Mar 14 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Mar 14 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Mar 14 | Jun 13 – Jan 9 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Kern County
40 herbs that grow well in Zone 9b with planting dates for Kern County.
Show all 40 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anise | Jan 31 | Feb 7 | Feb 21 | May 23 – Aug 8 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Jan 17 | Mar 7 | Mar 7 | May 2 – Jul 4 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Mar 7 | Jun 6 – Aug 22 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Jan 31 | Feb 7 | Feb 21 | Apr 18 – Jun 6 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Jan 31 | Feb 7 | Feb 21 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Mar 7 | May 9 – Jul 11 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Jan 31 | Feb 7 | Feb 21 | Apr 25 – Jul 4 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Jan 31 | Feb 7 | Feb 21 | Apr 4 – Jun 6 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Mar 7 | May 9 – Jul 18 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Jan 31 | Feb 7 | Feb 21 | Apr 4 – Jun 6 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Mar 7 | May 9 – Jul 18 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Jan 31 | Feb 7 | Feb 21 | Jun 6 – Aug 8 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Jan 31 | Feb 7 | Feb 21 | Apr 4 – Jun 6 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | Mar 7 | Jul 11 – Oct 17 | 120–180 |
| Epazote | Jan 17 | Mar 7 | Mar 7 | Apr 25 – Jun 20 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Jan 31 | Feb 7 | Feb 21 | Apr 25 – Jul 4 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Mar 7 | Jun 6 – Aug 22 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Mar 7 | May 9 – Jul 18 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Mar 7 | May 23 – Jul 18 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Mar 7 | May 16 – Jul 18 | 70–90 |
| Lavender | — | — | Mar 7 | Jun 6 – Nov 7 | 90–200 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Mar 7 | May 9 – Jun 27 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Mar 7 | May 16 – Jul 18 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Jan 17 | Mar 7 | Mar 7 | May 9 – Jul 18 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Jan 17 | Mar 7 | Mar 7 | May 23 – Aug 22 | 75–120 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Mar 7 | May 9 – Jul 18 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Mar 7 | May 9 – Jul 18 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Mar 7 | May 9 – Jul 18 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Jan 31 | Feb 7 | Feb 21 | Apr 25 – Jun 27 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Mar 7 | May 30 – Oct 17 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Mar 7 | May 16 – Jul 18 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Mar 7 | May 23 – Jul 18 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Mar 7 | May 2 – Jun 27 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Jan 31 | Feb 7 | Feb 21 | Apr 4 – Jun 6 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Jan 17 | Mar 7 | Mar 7 | May 9 – Jul 18 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Mar 7 | May 9 – Jul 18 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Jan 17 | Mar 7 | Mar 7 | May 2 – Jul 4 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Mar 7 | May 16 – Jul 18 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Mar 7 | Jul 11 – Oct 17 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | Mar 7 | Jun 6 – Aug 22 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Kern County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Kern County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Kern County, CA?
Kern County is in USDA Hardiness Zone 9b. This zone classification determines which perennial plants survive winter and sets the baseline for frost timing across the county.
When is the last frost in Kern County, CA?
Based on 27 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Kern County falls around February 28. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between January 17 and April 7 — a 80-day window of variability. Use April 7 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Kern County, CA?
The median first fall frost in Kern County arrives around November 29. In cold years it can arrive as early as November 2; in mild years as late as December 19. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Kern County?
Kern County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 275 days. This long season supports multiple succession plantings and warm-season crops that need extended heat, like sweet potatoes and melons. Climate records show the growing season is trending longer by about 7.95 days per decade.
What is the soil like in Kern County for gardening?
Kern County has predominantly Loam soil with a pH range of 6.2–7.7 and Excessively Drained drainage. Most vegetables and herbs grow well with standard composting and seasonal soil amendment.
What is grown commercially in Kern County?
Kern County has commercial agriculture that includes Almonds, Grapes, Dairy. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Kern County a good location for home gardening?
Kern County scores 44/100 (Moderate) on our Microclimate Index, which combines frost reliability, drought pressure, soil challenge, elevation risk, and long-term climate trend. Gardening here benefits from close attention to frost timing and season extension due to the challenging microclimate factors.
Your Kern County Garden Planner — Free
A 24-page printable planner built for Kern County (Zone 9b). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.
The Gardener's Encyclopedia to Companion Planting
The pairings that make vegetables, herbs, and flowers grow better — and the ones that quietly wreck a bed.
- Proven pairings for 200+ vegetables, herbs, flowers, and fruits
- Full seed-starting + planting schedule with timing and spacing
- Bonus: square-foot gardening guide + printable seasonal planners
Seed Saving & Storage Guide
Most saved seeds go bad before next season. This shows exactly when to pick, how to dry, and where to store seeds from 200 plants so yours don't.
- 200 plants, step-by-step: life cycle, pollination type, isolation
- Exact temperature + humidity ranges that keep seeds viable
- Bonus: searchable Google Sheets tracker + custom GPT assistant
Composting Guide for Homesteaders
Turn kitchen scraps and yard waste into compost that actually feeds the garden — instead of a pile that smells, attracts pests, and never breaks down.
- 14 sections on composting methods, soil science, and troubleshooting
- The 7-step hot-compost system from start to finish
- Bonus tools: troubleshooting chart, safety guide, monitoring log