Frost dates for 92079 — San Marcos, CA
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 San Marcos compares
- In a typical year, frost nights in San Marcos fall between December 30 and January 2. In 1 year in 10 the first frost comes as early as December 8, or the last frost as late as February 4.
- San Marcos shares its weather station with Escondido, CA, 8 km away, so the two have the same frost dates.
Frost probability
| Chance of frost after | Date |
|---|---|
| 90% (early) | December 14 |
| 50% (median) | January 2 |
| 10% (safe for tender plants) | February 4 |
| Chance of frost before | Date |
|---|---|
| 10% (early) | December 8 |
| 50% (median) | December 30 |
| 90% (late) | January 29 |
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
San Marcos, CA 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 Escondido #2, CA weather station, 8 km away (elevation 600 ft (183 m)).
ZIP codes in San Marcos: 92069 92078 92079 92096
Frost dates near San Marcos
- Escondido Jan 2 · Dec 30
- Vista Jan 30 · Jan 7
- Carlsbad rare frost
- Encinitas rare frost
- Cardiff By The Sea rare frost
- Bonsall Jan 30 · Jan 7
- San Luis Rey Jan 23 · Dec 11
- Rancho Santa Fe Jan 5 · Jan 2
Frequently asked questions
When is the last frost in San Marcos, CA?
The median last spring frost in San Marcos, CA is January 2. There is still about a 10% chance of frost after February 4, so wait until then to plant frost-tender crops like tomatoes and peppers.
When is the first frost in San Marcos, CA?
The median first fall frost is December 30, with about a 10% chance of frost before December 8.
How long is the growing season in San Marcos, CA?
About 362 days between the median last spring frost and first fall frost.
What planting zone is San Marcos, CA?
San Marcos, CA is in USDA hardiness zone 10a.