Planting Dates for Colorado
Colorado's high altitude and intense sunshine create unique gardening challenges and opportunities. The Front Range has the most moderate conditions, while mountain communities face very short growing seasons.
USDA Zones 3a-7a • 60-165 frost-free days depending on location
Frost Dates in Colorado
Average last spring frost and first fall frost dates for Colorado cities. Use these to calculate your planting windows.
| City | Last Spring Frost | First Fall Frost | Frost-Free Days | USDA Zone |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Denver | May 4 | Oct 6 | 155 | 6a |
| Colorado Springs | May 6 | Oct 2 | 149 | 5b |
| Grand Junction | Apr 22 | Oct 14 | 175 | 7a |
Gardening Tips for Colorado
- ✓High altitude intensifies sun — plants may need afternoon shade protection.
- ✓Front Range gardens (Denver area) enjoy about 155 frost-free days.
- ✓Mountain gardens above 7,000 feet can see frost any month of the year.
- ✓Colorado's dry climate requires consistent irrigation for vegetable gardens.
What to Plant in Colorado
Cold-Hardy Crops (plant early)
These crops tolerate frost and can be planted 2-6 weeks before your last frost date.
30-60 days from sowing
55-70 days from sowing
60-80 days from sowing
50-70 days from sowing
55-80 days from transplant
35-50 days from sowing
20-35 days from sowing
July-August the following year
90-120 days from transplant
70-120 days from planting
50-70 days from sowing
50-60 days from sowing
Warm-Season Crops (plant after last frost)
Start these indoors and transplant after all frost danger has passed.
60-85 days from transplant
60-90 days from transplant
50-65 days from sowing
50-65 days from sowing
45-60 days from sowing
60-100 days from sowing
30-60 days from sowing
Get Exact Planting Dates for Colorado
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Frequently Asked Questions
When is the last frost date in Colorado?
Last frost dates in Colorado vary by city: Denver (May 4), Colorado Springs (May 6), Grand Junction (Apr 22).
What USDA hardiness zones are in Colorado?
Colorado spans USDA hardiness zones 3a-7a. Your specific zone determines which perennials survive winter and when to start planting annuals.
What vegetables grow best in Colorado?
Hardy crops like peas, kale, spinach, and garlic thrive across Colorado. In warmer zones, tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers do well with proper timing. Use our free calculator for exact planting dates.
How long is the growing season in Colorado?
60-165 frost-free days depending on location. Extend your season with cold frames, row covers, and indoor seed starting.
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Free Calculator
Calculate exact planting dates based on your location and frost dates.