State growing guide
Hawaii Planting Guide
USDA Zone 11a/11b · Last frost None · First frost None · Year-round
Zone-specific planting calendar, major city frost dates, top crops, and Duke's tips for growing food in Hawaii.
Frost Dates by City — Hawaii
Average frost dates for major Hawaii cities. Use these to calculate your indoor start dates and transplant windows.
| City | USDA Zone | Last Spring Frost | First Fall Frost | Tomato Transplant Window |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Honolulu | 11a | No frost | No frost | Year-round |
| Hilo | 11b | No frost | No frost | Year-round |
| Kailua-Kona | 12a | No frost | No frost | Year-round |
| Waimea | 9b | Dec 15 | Feb 20 | ~2 wks after (Dec 15) |
Average dates based on 30-year NOAA climate normals. Individual years may vary ±2 weeks. Use the Zone Lookup Tool for ZIP-specific dates.
Duke's Top Tips for Hawaii Gardeners
- Year-round growing is possible at low elevations
- High elevation areas (Waimea, Volcano) can get frost — check your micro-climate
- Trade winds cool coastal gardens — plant on the leeward side for heat-lovers
- Soil pH is often low (acidic) — lime regularly for vegetables
Common Challenges in Hawaii
- ⚠ Tropical pests (fruit flies, aphids, whiteflies) year-round
- ⚠ Heavy rainfall on windward sides causes root rot — raised beds essential
- ⚠ Mongoose and rats damage fruit crops
Best Crops for Hawaii
Get exact dates for your ZIP code in Hawaii
City averages are a starting point. Your actual microclimate matters — enter your ZIP for precise frost dates.
Frequently Asked Questions — Hawaii Gardening
What zone is Hawaii?
Hawaii ranges from Zone 9b at high elevations (Waimea, Volcano) to Zone 13 in the warmest coastal areas. Most of Hawaii is Zone 11–12.
Can I grow anything in Hawaii?
Hawaii's tropical climate supports an enormous variety. At low elevations you can grow papayas, tropical fruits, and vegetables year-round.