Seed-start answer
Start tomatoes seeds indoors around Feb 18
In ZIP 97204, start tomatoes seeds indoors around Feb 18, about 42 days before the Apr 1 last-frost estimate.
Source: portland-intl frost station, USDA zone 9a, last updated 2026-06-28. Verify locally before planting high-value crops because microclimates, current weather, and yard exposure can move the safe date.
This uses ZIP 97204, the Portland frost station, and the Apr 1 last-frost estimate.
Seed starting schedule
Tomatoes dates for Portland, OR
| Step | Date | How to use it |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | February 18, 2026 | Start seeds under lights or in a bright indoor seed-starting space. |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 8, 2026 | Move hardened-off seedlings outside after the frost-risk window. |