When to Plant Vegetables in Colorado
Colorado’s climate can be unpredictable from year to year, and it’s essential that you plant vegetables at the right time. Knowing when to plant your vegetables will help ensure a successful harvest come fall.
Planting Techniques
The best planting techniques for Colorado depend on the type of vegetable you want to plant. The following are the two recommended methods for planting vegetables in Colorado:
- Direct Seeding: Direct seeding is the process of planting seeds directly in the ground in the fall or spring. It works best for heat-loving vegetables like corn, beans, squash, tomatoes, and peppers.
- Transplanting: Transplanting is best for vegetables that require cooler conditions, like cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, and some root crops. Transplanting is done by planting established seedlings that were grown inside in the early spring.
When to Plant
The best time to plant vegetables in Colorado depends on where you live. Low elevation areas like Denver, Boulder, and the surrounding areas can begin planting in late April or early May. In mountain areas, like Summit and Eagle counties, planting usually can’t begin until late May or early June. For direct seeding, you should aim to get your seeds in the ground 4-6 weeks before the first expected fall frost.
Growing Tips
In addition to when to plant your vegetables, it’s also important to consider how to properly care for them once they’re in the ground. To ensure your vegetable garden is successful, follow the below tips:
- Give your plants plenty of sunlight.
- Provide them with adequate water, especially during dry months.
- Regularly fertilize and mulch your plants.
- Be on the lookout for pests and diseases.
By taking the time to properly plan your vegetable garden, you’ll be rewarded with healthy and abundant produce come fall.
