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When to plant Cumin in Cabazon, CA

In Cabazon, plant Cumin in spring between February 3 and February 24, once soil temps hold above 50°F. Cabazon's last frost averages February 24, so aim for a steady week of warm soil before planting. For a fall crop, sow between October 9 and October 23 — roughly 100–120 days before the first frost on December 4.

When to Plant Cumin in Cabazon, CA

Cumin is a warm-season annual herb whose seeds are one of the most widely used spices globally. It requires a long, hot growing season of 3-4 months.

Cabazon, California is in USDA Zone 10a. The average last spring frost is February 24 and the first fall frost is December 4, giving you a growing season of approximately 283 days.

At an elevation of 1,206 feet, Riverside County receives approximately 15.5 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly loam soil. Summer highs average 102°F, so Cumin may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. With low rainfall, drip irrigation is essential for growing Cumin successfully. Mulch heavily to conserve soil moisture.

Cabazon, CA (Zone 10a) Year-round
283 days
Last Spring Frost February 24
283 growing days
First Fall Frost December 4

Cabazon Soil Profile

Soil Type

Loam

Soil pH

6.2-7.8

Drainage

Well Drained

Monthly Watering Guide for Cumin

Cumin needs approximately 1 inches of water per week (4.3" per month). Here's how your county's rainfall compares month by month.

Month Cumin Needs Rainfall You Supplement Action
Jan 3.5" 0" ❄️ Dormant
Feb 4.3" 3.6" 0.7" 💧 Light watering
Mar 4.3" 2.2" 2.1" 💧 Light watering
Apr 4.3" 1.2" 3.1" 🚿 Regular watering
May 4.3" 0.4" 3.9" 🚿 Regular watering
Jun 4.3" 0.1" 4.2" 🚿 Regular watering
Jul 4.3" 0" 4.3" 🚿 Regular watering
Aug 4.3" 0" 4.3" 🚿 Regular watering
Sep 4.3" 0.2" 4.1" 🚿 Regular watering
Oct 4.3" 0.6" 3.7" 🚿 Regular watering
Nov 4.3" 1.5" 2.8" 🚿 Regular watering
Dec 4.3" 2.4" 1.9" 💧 Light watering

Water needs are for active growing months only (Feb–Dec in Riverside County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.

Cumin Planting Timeline — Cabazon, CA

Cumin Planting Calendar

Activity When Date Range
Start Indoors January 27 Jan 27 – Feb 10
Transplant Outdoors February 17 Feb 17 – Mar 3
Direct Sow February 3 Feb 3 – Feb 24
Harvest June 2 Jun 2 – Aug 4
Fall Sowing October 9 Oct 9 – Oct 23

Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart

Month-by-Month Timeline

MonthActivities
January Start Indoors
February Start Indoors Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow
March Transplant Outdoors
April
May
June Harvest
July Harvest
August Harvest
September
October Fall Sowing
November
December

Growing Conditions

☀️ Sun

Full Sun (6-8+ hours)

💧 Water

Low — drought tolerant

📅 Days to Maturity

100–120 days

🧪 Soil pH

Needs 6–8 · Your soil: N/A

🗺️ USDA Zone

Zone 10a

📆 Growing Season

283 days in Riverside County

Growing Tips for Cabazon

Start seeds indoors 4 weeks before last frost. Transplant after all danger of frost. Harvest when seed heads turn brown. Requires consistent warmth for proper seed development.

Companion Planting

Good Companions

Avoid Planting Near

  • Fennel

Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →

When should I plant Cumin in Cabazon, CA?

In Cabazon, CA, plant Cumin after the last frost (around February 24) and before the first frost (around December 4). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.

What growing zone is Cabazon, CA for Cumin?

Cabazon sits in USDA Zone 10a. Cumin grows reliably in zones 5a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.

Can Cumin grow in Cabazon's climate?

Yes — Cumin grows well in Cabazon's temperate climate. Cabazon averages a 284-day frost-free season, with last frost around February 24 and first frost around December 4.

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Data sources: USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map (2023), NOAA 30-Year Climate Normals. Frost dates are based on 50% probability averages for Riverside County, CA. Local conditions may vary. Last updated: July 2026.