Alaska Planting Guide & Growing Season
Alaska is in USDA hardiness zone with a growing season of 105 days. The average last spring frost is May 15 - Jun 15 and the average first fall frost is Aug 15 - Sep 15. Climate data based on Juneau.
Growing Conditions in Alaska
How Alaska Compares
Compare Alaska's growing conditions with states that have similar climates.
| State | USDA Zone | Last Frost | First Frost | Season (days) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alaska (AK) | May 15 - Jun 15 | Aug 15 - Sep 15 | 105 | |
| Alabama (AL) | Mar 1 - Apr 1 | Oct 25 - Nov 15 | 220 | |
| Arizona (AZ) | Feb 1 - Apr 15 | Oct 15 - Dec 15 | 270 | |
| Arkansas (AR) | Mar 15 - Apr 15 | Oct 15 - Nov 1 | 210 | |
| California (CA) | Jan 15 - Apr 15 | Oct 15 - Dec 31 | 290 | |
| Colorado (CO) | Apr 15 - Jun 1 | Sep 15 - Oct 15 | 150 |
Frequently Asked Questions About Gardening in Alaska
When should I start seeds indoors in Alaska?
In Alaska, the average last frost date is May 15 - Jun 15. Start most seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before this date. The USDA hardiness zone for Alaska is undefined, with a growing season of approximately 105 days.
What USDA hardiness zone is Alaska?
Alaska falls in USDA hardiness zones undefined. This affects which perennial plants will survive winter and influences optimal planting times.
When is the first frost in Alaska?
The average first frost date in Alaska is Aug 15 - Sep 15. Plan to harvest cold-sensitive crops before this date or protect them with row covers.
How long is the growing season in Alaska?
Alaska has an average growing season of 105 days, from the last frost (May 15 - Jun 15) to first frost (Aug 15 - Sep 15). This shorter season requires starting many crops indoors and choosing quick-maturing varieties.
Plan Your Garden
Use our seed starting calculator to get personalized planting dates, or browse all states.