Question 1

When should I plant kale in ZIP 94612?

Accepted Answer

In ZIP 94612, the main kale target is around Jan 18, based on the representative Oakland frost station and USDA zone 10a.

Question 2

When should I start kale seeds indoors in 94612?

Accepted Answer

Start kale seeds indoors in ZIP 94612 around Dec 28, about 35 days before the Feb 1 last-frost estimate.

Question 3

When is the last frost in Oakland?

Accepted Answer

Oakland (ZIP 94612) has an average last spring frost around Feb 1, based on the representative Oakland frost station.

Question 4

When is the first frost in Oakland?

Accepted Answer

Oakland (ZIP 94612) has an average first fall frost around Dec 1, leaving about 303 frost-free days.

Question 5

Is this a guaranteed planting date?

Accepted Answer

No. GrowZone uses frost-date estimates, hardiness zones, and crop timing rules for planning. Local microclimates and current weather can shift the right date.

Step	Date	How to use it
Start Indoors	December 28, 2025	Start seeds under lights or in a bright indoor seed-starting space.
Transplant Outdoors	January 18, 2026	Move hardened-off seedlings outside after the frost-risk window.
Direct Sow	January 11, 2026	Sow seed outside when the crop and soil can handle the window.

Start kale seeds indoors around Dec 28

Kale dates for Oakland, CA