Grow It in Colorado
Practical help for growing vegetables, fruit and herbs in Colorado's high, dry, sunny and unpredictable climate, with a focus on the Front Range and El Paso County.
Why gardening in Colorado is different
Altitude & short season
Higher elevations mean cooler nights and fewer frost-free days. Choose short-season varieties and check "days to maturity" on seed packets.
Late & early frosts
Spring frosts in May and early fall frosts in September are common along the Front Range. Use local frost-date data, not a single calendar date.
Hail & wind
Summer hailstorms and strong, drying winds can shred plants in minutes. Plan for covers and windbreaks.
Alkaline, clay or sandy soils
Many Colorado soils are low in organic matter and have a high pH. Compost helps both heavy clay and fast-draining sandy soil.
Low humidity & intense sun
Dry air and strong high-altitude sunlight dry out soil quickly and can scald fruit and leaves.
Limited water
Semi-arid climate and watering restrictions make efficient irrigation and mulching essential.
Quick start
- When to plant: cool vs. warm season crops by region
- Starting seeds indoors: when to sow for the Colorado Springs and Fountain area
- What to grow: crops and varieties that succeed here
- Soil & water: compost, mulch, drip irrigation and rain barrels
- Protecting your garden: hail, frost, wind, pests and wildlife
- Resources: CSU Extension, Master Gardeners, seed libraries
Find your USDA hardiness zone and other research-based sources on the Resources page.