Frost dates for 33812 — Lakeland, 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 Lakeland compares
- In a typical year, frost nights in Lakeland fall between January 7 and January 24. In 1 year in 10 the first frost comes as early as December 17, or the last frost as late as February 20.
- Compared with Tampa, FL, 56 km away, the last frost here is 4 days later than there.
Frost probability
| Chance of frost after | Date |
|---|---|
| 90% (early) | December 27 |
| 50% (median) | January 24 |
| 10% (safe for tender plants) | February 20 |
| Chance of frost before | Date |
|---|---|
| 10% (early) | December 17 |
| 50% (median) | January 7 |
| 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
Lakeland, 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 Bartow 1se, FL weather station, 11 km away (elevation 112 ft (34 m)).
ZIP codes in Lakeland: 33801 33802 33803 33804 33805 33806 33807 33809 33810 33811 33812 33813 33815
Frost dates near Lakeland
- Highland City Jan 24 · Jan 7
- Eaton Park Jan 26 · Jan 9
- Bartow Jan 24 · Jan 7
- Mulberry Jan 26 · Jan 9
- Eagle Lake Jan 16 · Jan 9
- Auburndale Jan 15 · Jan 10
- Nichols Jan 26 · Jan 9
- Winter Haven Jan 16 · Jan 9
Frequently asked questions
When is the last frost in Lakeland, FL?
The median last spring frost in Lakeland, FL is January 24. There is still about a 10% chance of frost after February 20, so wait until then to plant frost-tender crops like tomatoes and peppers.
When is the first frost in Lakeland, FL?
The median first fall frost is January 7, with about a 10% chance of frost before December 17.
How long is the growing season in Lakeland, FL?
About 348 days between the median last spring frost and first fall frost.
What planting zone is Lakeland, FL?
Lakeland, FL is in USDA hardiness zone 10a.