Winston-Salem, NC Frost Dates
Published: February 1, 2026 · Updated:
USDA Zone 7a
Last Spring Frost
March 15
Safe to transplant after this date
First Fall Frost
November 15
Protect tender plants before this date
Frost-Free Season
245 days
Mid-March to Late November
198 days until last frost in Winston-Salem — March 15
Winston-Salem’s zone 7a climate provides a generous 245-day frost-free window — long enough for a wide variety of vegetables and excellent conditions for both cool-season and warm-season lawn grasses.
Complete Planting Calendar for Winston-Salem
Lawn Care Timing for Winston-Salem
Based on Winston-Salem's USDA zone 7a frost dates: The last frost of March 15 marks when warm-season grasses begin recovering. Apply spring fertilizer in Mid-March when soil reaches 55°F. The first fall frost of November 15 sets your deadlines — complete overseeding by September 15–October 15 and apply winterizer by Late November.
USDA Zone 7a Summary
Eight months frost-free. Warm-season grasses dominate but cool-season grasses survive winter. Nashville, Oklahoma City area.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the last frost date in Winston-Salem, NC?
The average last spring frost in Winston-Salem is March 15. This is based on USDA zone 7a historical averages. Plan transplanting and spring lawn care around this date — wait 2 weeks after for frost-sensitive plantings.
When is the first fall frost in Winston-Salem?
Winston-Salem’s average first fall frost is November 15. This sets deadlines for fall overseeding (must be done 6 weeks before) and winterizer application (by Late November).
When should I plant tomatoes in Winston-Salem?
Transplant tomato seedlings outdoors after March 15. Start seeds indoors Late December. Direct sow warm-season crops after march 22.
When should I overseed my lawn in Winston-Salem?
The prime overseeding window in Winston-Salem is September 15–October 15. This ensures warm soil for germination before the first fall frost on November 15.
When should I apply winterizer in Winston-Salem?
Apply winterizer fertilizer in Winston-Salem by Late November. This high-potassium application hardens grass cell walls before freeze damage. Your first fall frost of November 15 is the hard deadline.