When to Plant Vegetables in Denver
Denver enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and moderate winters. The city’s elevation affects its weather conditions, and planting times of vegetables vary depending upon the variety of vegetable. So, when should you plant vegetables in Denver?
Spring
In early spring, some vegetables can be direct seeded in Denver’s soil if the temperatures reach at least 40 degrees Fahrenheit. Here are some of the vegetables you can begin planting in the spring:
- Salad Greens: Plant successively for a constant supply throughout the season.
- Beets: Plant beets as soon as you can work the soil in spring.
- Radishes: Plant radishes as soon as you can work the soil in spring.
- Spinach: Plant spinach in early spring and again in late summer.
Summer
In the summertime, you can plant vegetables such as tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, squash, and beans. It’s ideal to wait until all danger of frost has passed before you begin planting in the summer. Here are some tips for planting vegetables in summer:
- Fertilize: Apply fertilizer when planting summer vegetables, but take care not to over-fertilize.
- Companion Planting: Plant tomatoes and peppers together for best growth and pest control.
- Water: Be sure to provide consistent moisture for vegetables planted in the heat of summer.
- Mulch: To help retain moisture, consider layering a 2-inch layer of mulch around plants.
Fall
After the hot summer days have passed, prepare for a cool and wet fall by planting a variety of vegetables, including greens, beets, turnips, and carrots. Here are some tips for fall planting of vegetables:
- Earlier Planting: Plant earlier so the plants can mature before frost arrives.
- Soil Warmth: Since the soil is cooler during fall, be sure to provide warmth during the germination and early growth stages of the seed.
- Mulch & Water: Covering the soil with mulch and providing the plants with consistent water will help extend the season.
- Succession Planting: Plant successively to ensure a constant supply of vegetables all season.
Denver’s moderate climate and wide range of microclimates make it possible for gardeners to successfully grow vegetables twice per year. Being aware of when to plant will ensure a successful and bountiful harvest in the Mile High City.
