Question 1

When should I plant kale in ZIP 97204?

Accepted Answer

In ZIP 97204, the main kale target is around Mar 18, based on the representative Portland frost station and USDA zone 9a.

Question 2

When should I start kale seeds indoors in 97204?

Accepted Answer

Start kale seeds indoors in ZIP 97204 around Feb 25, about 35 days before the Apr 1 last-frost estimate.

Question 3

When is the last frost in Portland?

Accepted Answer

Portland (ZIP 97204) has an average last spring frost around Apr 1, based on the representative Portland frost station.

Question 4

When is the first frost in Portland?

Accepted Answer

Portland (ZIP 97204) has an average first fall frost around Nov 10, leaving about 223 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	February 25, 2026	Start seeds under lights or in a bright indoor seed-starting space.
Transplant Outdoors	March 18, 2026	Move hardened-off seedlings outside after the frost-risk window.
Direct Sow	March 11, 2026	Sow seed outside when the crop and soil can handle the window.

Start kale seeds indoors around Feb 25

Kale dates for Portland, OR