Tips for Gardeners Growing Vegetables in Colorado

 

Growing Vegetables
Image: extension.colostate.edu

Experienced in Colorado’s real estate market, Kurt Wiedt serves as principal of Markham Woods based in Denver. Alongside his professional activities, Kurt Wiedt enjoys gardening.

Those interested in growing their own vegetables in Colorado should remember that the local climate affects the growing season. The state has nine different growing zones, and plants have the best chance of thriving in the zone most suited to them. Much of the soil in the state consists of dense, heavy clay and lacks aeration–factors that make it difficult for plants to grow strong roots.

In addition, most of the state has a relatively short growing season compared to that of lower altitude areas. For every additional 1,000 feet above sea level, the temperature drops approximately 3.5 degrees. Those who garden at lower elevations have a longer and warmer growing season.

Lastly, to decide when to plant their seeds, gardeners should acquaint themselves with the last and first frost dates (meaning, what date in the spring is the last day of frost and what day in the fall is the first). For most areas in the state, these are between May 15 through 30, and around September 15, respectively.