Frost dates for 32773 — Sanford, FL
Frost is light and occasional here — typically a few cold nights around midwinter (about 2 a year). Cover tender plants when frost is forecast.
How Sanford compares
- In a typical year, frost nights in Sanford fall between January 9 and January 24. In 1 year in 10 the first frost comes as early as December 15, or the last frost as late as February 23.
- Compared with Deltona, FL, 24 km away, the last frost here is 24 days earlier than there.
Frost probability
| Chance of frost after | Date |
|---|---|
| 90% (early) | December 29 |
| 50% (median) | January 24 |
| 10% (safe for tender plants) | February 23 |
| Chance of frost before | Date |
|---|---|
| 10% (early) | December 15 |
| 50% (median) | January 9 |
| 90% (late) | February 6 |
Frost here means 32°F (0°C). A median date means half of years have their last frost earlier and half later.
Gardening where frost is rare
Sanford, FL only freezes on a few winter nights, so the usual "plant after the last frost" rule doesn't apply. Heat and rainfall decide the seasons instead:
- Cool-season crops (lettuce, broccoli, peas, carrots) grow best from fall through late winter.
- Warm-season crops (tomatoes, peppers, beans, squash) do best planted in late winter to spring, and again in late summer for a fall crop — midsummer heat can stop tomatoes setting fruit.
- Heat lovers (okra, sweet potatoes, melons) can be planted through spring and early summer.
About these dates
Based on 1991–2020 NOAA climate normals for the Orlando Sanford Ap, FL weather station, 4 km away (elevation 56 ft (17 m)).
ZIP codes in Sanford: 32771 32772 32773
Frost dates near Sanford
- Mid Florida Jan 24 · Jan 9
- Lake Mary Jan 24 · Jan 9
- Longwood Jan 24 · Jan 9
- Winter Springs Jan 24 · Jan 9
- Lake Monroe Jan 26 · Jan 12
- Casselberry Jan 24 · Jan 9
- Altamonte Springs Jan 24 · Jan 9
- Oviedo Jan 24 · Jan 9
Frequently asked questions
When is the last frost in Sanford, FL?
The median last spring frost in Sanford, FL is January 24. There is still about a 10% chance of frost after February 23, so wait until then to plant frost-tender crops like tomatoes and peppers.
When is the first frost in Sanford, FL?
The median first fall frost is January 9, with about a 10% chance of frost before December 15.
How long is the growing season in Sanford, FL?
About 350 days between the median last spring frost and first fall frost.
What planting zone is Sanford, FL?
Sanford, FL is in USDA hardiness zone 9b.