The Ultimate Colorado Springs Gardening Guide: When & What to Plant for a Thriving Garden

Gardening in Colorado Springs: A Seasonal Guide

Thinking about planting roots in Colorado Springs—both figuratively and literally? Whether you're new to the area or a long-time resident looking to maximize your garden, knowing when and what to plant is essential for success. With high-altitude weather, seasonal shifts, and varying frost dates, strategic planting ensures a bountiful harvest and a thriving landscape. Whether you're growing vegetables, herbs, or flowers, timing is everything!

Spring is when gardens come to life, but in Colorado Springs, timing is crucial. Our last frost typically falls around May 8, so planning ahead is key. But don’t worry if you miss the early window—many crops can still be planted throughout the season! Some plants, like tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants, need a head start indoors. Begin seedlings 6–8 weeks before the last frost so they’re strong and ready to thrive outdoors. Hardy veggies such as carrots, beets, and radishes can go straight into the ground as soon as the soil is workable. Want a continuous harvest? Lettuce, radishes, and other quick-growing crops can be replanted several times through spring and summer. Even late starters can grow successfully. Many crops will mature before the first fall frost (around October 3), giving you plenty of time to reap the benefits.

Missed the spring planting window? No problem! Fall is a fantastic time to plant, with cooler temps and fewer pests. Many crops thrive in mid-to-late summer planting and yield an abundant autumn harvest. Unlike in spring, the soil is already warm, giving plants a strong start. Leafy greens, root vegetables, and brassicas do exceptionally well when planted from late July through August. Seasonal rains mean less watering, and fewer bugs means healthier plants with less hassle. Some crops, like Brussels sprouts, carrots, and kale, actually taste better after a light frost!

Colorado Springs’ unique climate means you need to time plantings carefully to maximize yield before frost sets in. Use these guidelines: Begin growing seedlings 4–8 weeks before outdoor transplanting. Move starter plants into the garden after the last frost risk has passed. Hardy vegetables can be sown as soon as soil temperatures allow. This is your last opportunity to get plants in before fall frosts impact growth.

Gardening in Colorado Springs is an exciting and rewarding experience with the right knowledge and resources. Whether you’re planting your first garden or refining your technique, timing, planning, and smart planting strategies will set you up for success. Happy gardening!

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