Santa Barbara County, CA — Planting Guide
May in the garden — Santa Barbara County, California
Each item below is timed to Santa Barbara County, California's frost dates and soil temperatures. Skip nothing, stress about nothing.
-
Bring in the basil, carrots, and cucumber
Morning harvests are best — cooler temperatures mean crisper produce and longer fridge life.
Before June arrives, get these ready
- First harvests: basil, cucumber, and green beans
Santa Barbara County is in USDA Zone 10a. The average last spring frost is February 28 and the first fall frost is November 24, giving you a growing season of approximately 270 days.
At an elevation of 2,364 ft, Santa Barbara County receives approximately 19.9 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 89°F with winter lows around 50°F. The predominant soil type is Loam.
Based on 28 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 80 days year to year — ranging from January 18 in warm years to April 7 in cold years. The growing season is trending shorter by about 13.09 days per decade. Santa Barbara County scores 38/100 (Challenging) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
10a (°F to °F min)
❄️ Last Frost
February 28
🍂 First Frost
November 24
📅 Growing Season
270 days
⛰️ Elevation
2,364 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
19.9 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 | 4 in | 8 days | 0.3 in | Low |
| Feb | 4.6 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Mar | 2.9 in | 6 days | 1.4 in | Moderate |
| Apr | 1.8 in | 4 days | 2.5 in | High |
| May | 0.5 in | 1 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 | 0.8 in | 2 days | 3.5 in | Critical |
| Nov | 2.1 in | 5 days | 2.2 in | High |
| Dec | 2.9 in | 9 days | 1.4 in | Moderate |
Annual total: 19.9 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.
Santa Barbara County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.5-7.2
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 28 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 20 | 257 days |
| Cautious | Mar 17 | Dec 7 | 265 days |
| Average year | Feb 28 | Nov 24 | 269 days |
| Optimistic | Feb 12 | Nov 12 | 273 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Jan 18 | Oct 29 | 284 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 shorter here (about 13.1 days per decade). Use the "Conservative" dates and choose fast-maturing varieties.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Santa Barbara County has challenging growing conditions. Season extension and careful variety selection are essential.
Local Gardening Help in Santa Barbara 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 Santa Barbara County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Santa Barbara 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 Santa Barbara County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Santa Barbara County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Santa Barbara 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 Santa Barbara County CA" or "garden center Santa Barbara 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 Santa Barbara County CA" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Santa Barbara 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
14.3 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.7 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
13.6 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 | 5.7 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.8 hr | 6.2 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 7.9 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.9 hr | 9.3 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.8 hr | 10.8 hr | Neutral |
| June | 14.3 hr | 12 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.1 hr | 13.6 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.3 hr | 11.6 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 9.9 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.1 hr | 8.1 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.2 hr | 6.1 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.7 hr | 5.5 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 | 57°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Feb | 56°F | 58°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Mar | 58°F | 60°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Apr | 68°F | 66°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| May | 73°F | 72°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 81°F | 80°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 90°F | 84°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 88°F | 88°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 88°F | 85°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 76°F | 79°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 68°F | 71°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Dec | 55°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 Santa Barbara 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 | Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec |
| Whiteflies | High | Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec |
| Spider mites | High | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov |
| Thrips | Moderate | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Scale insects | Moderate | Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Nematodes | Low | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
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 Santa Barbara 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 8 | Sep 22 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Mar 3 | Sep 29 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Mar 1 | Sep 29 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Jan 28 | Sep 22 | ✓ 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 14 | Oct 27 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Fall Cover Crops (1 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Crimson clover | Sep 29 | Feb 7 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
Wind & Microclimate
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 10 mph Summer: 9 mph
Fall: 9 mph Winter: 8 mph
Prevailing wind: W. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
4.8/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (272 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting Potential
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Annual Collection
9,918 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 19.9 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 9,918 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 Santa Barbara County
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH 6.5–7.2 · Moderately Well Drained drainage
Native soil is well-suited to most vegetables and herbs with regular compost additions.
Watering Needs
Drought stress: 9.5/10
Very high drought stress. Irrigation is critical for garden success. Focus on water-efficient techniques and drought-adapted crops.
Season Tips
270-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 Santa Barbara County
106 vegetables that grow well in Zone 10a with planting dates for Santa Barbara County.
Show all 106 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 |
| 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 |
| 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 |
| Ginger | Jan 17 | Feb 28 | Mar 7 | Nov 7 – Jan 16 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | Mar 7 | — | May 2 – Jun 27 | 50–65 |
| 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 |
| 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 |
| 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 |
| 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 |
| 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 16 | 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 – Feb 20 | 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 Santa Barbara County
16 fruits that grow well in Zone 10a with planting dates for Santa Barbara County.
Show all 16 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 |
| 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 |
| Loquat | — | — | Mar 14 | — | 730–1825 |
| Passion Fruit | — | — | Mar 14 | — | 365–545 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Mar 14 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Mar 14 | Jun 13 – Mar 13 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Santa Barbara County
23 herbs that grow well in Zone 10a with planting dates for Santa Barbara County.
Show all 23 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 |
| Borage | Jan 31 | Feb 7 | Feb 21 | Apr 18 – Jun 6 | 50–60 |
| 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 |
| 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 |
| 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 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Mar 7 | May 9 – Jul 18 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Mar 7 | May 23 – Jul 18 | 75–90 |
| 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 |
| Sage | — | — | Mar 7 | May 23 – Jul 18 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Mar 7 | May 2 – Jun 27 | 50–70 |
| Stevia | Jan 17 | Mar 7 | Mar 7 | May 9 – Jul 18 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Jan 17 | Mar 7 | Mar 7 | May 2 – Jul 4 | 50–75 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Santa Barbara County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Santa Barbara County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Santa Barbara County, CA?
Santa Barbara County is in USDA Hardiness Zone 10a. 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 Santa Barbara County, CA?
Based on 28 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Santa Barbara County falls around February 28. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between January 18 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 Santa Barbara County, CA?
The median first fall frost in Santa Barbara County arrives around November 24. In cold years it can arrive as early as October 29; in mild years as late as December 20. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Santa Barbara County?
Santa Barbara County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 270 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 shorter by about 13.09 days per decade.
What is the soil like in Santa Barbara County for gardening?
Santa Barbara County has predominantly Loam soil with a pH range of 6.5–7.2 and Moderately Well Drained drainage. Most vegetables and herbs grow well with standard composting and seasonal soil amendment.
What is grown commercially in Santa Barbara County?
Santa Barbara County has commercial agriculture that includes Almonds, Grapes, Lettuce, Dairy, Rice. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Santa Barbara County a good location for home gardening?
Santa Barbara County scores 38/100 (Challenging) 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 Santa Barbara County Garden Planner — Free
A 24-page printable planner built for Santa Barbara County (Zone 10a). 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