Rush, CO — Planting Guide for July
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
Your July gardening checklist
Your El Paso County, Colorado garden is entering a new phase. Here's what's on the schedule for July and why each task matters now.
-
Sow peppers, pole beans, and tomatoes in trays indoors
Label every cell. You will absolutely forget which is which otherwise.
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Start harvesting basil, carrots, and cucumber
Don't tug. Use scissors or pruners for clean cuts — torn stems invite disease.
-
Sow carrots, kale, and lettuce for an autumn harvest
A row cover ready in the garage extends your harvest by weeks once the nights turn cold.
A few tasks this July that'll pay off in August
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
- Fall sowing: alliums, bachelor's button, and crocus
Rush has a classic four-season growing climate (Zone 6a). The last spring frost typically lands around May 11 and the first fall frost arrives around October 6 — a 148-day frost-free season that's long enough for tomatoes, peppers, melons, and a full succession of cool-weather crops on either side. The trick is timing: start warm-season seedlings indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost, harden them off, and plant out the week after your local frost date is statistically safe.
Soils trend Loam — the gold standard for vegetables. Add 2–3" of compost annually to maintain it and you'll outgrow most of your neighbors.
Rush averages 30.3 drought weeks per year (US Drought Monitor, 2000–present, trend stable). Treat irrigation as a year-round system, not a summer add-on.
🌡️ USDA Zone
6a (-10°F to -5°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
May 11
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 6
📅 Growing Season
148 days
🌧️ Climate
Unknown 0.0" annual
💨 Wind
Unknown 0.0 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
30.3 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Rush
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
Why this matters: Mulch reduces watering needs 30-50% by cutting evaporation. Rush's 0" annual rainfall might be enough for vegetables in some months and not in others — a 2-3" mulch layer evens the swing.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 1.7 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.6 in | 5 days | — | None |
| Mar | 1.8 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Apr | 2.4 in | 6 days | 1.9 in | High |
| May | 2.8 in | 8 days | 1.5 in | Moderate |
| Jun | 1.6 in | 4 days | 2.7 in | High |
| Jul | 2.3 in | 5 days | 2 in | High |
| Aug | 3 in | 6 days | 1.3 in | Moderate |
| Sep | 1.7 in | 6 days | 2.6 in | High |
| Oct | 1.9 in | 6 days | 2.4 in | High |
| Nov | 1.5 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Dec | 1.2 in | 7 days | — | None |
Annual total: 23.5 in. Water needs vary by crop — tomatoes need ~1.2"/week while herbs like rosemary need only 0.3"/week. Check individual plant pages for crop-specific water budgets that factor in your county's rainfall and soil drainage.
Rush Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.5-7.9
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data from 3 stations
Beginners: Plant frost-sensitive crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) after the "Safe" date on the left. Harvest or cover them before the "Protect by" date on the right. Hardy crops (lettuce, peas, kale) can go in the yellow transition zones.
How to read this table: "Conservative" means you're safe from frost 9 out of 10 years — best for beginners and frost-sensitive crops. "Average year" is the typical date. "Aggressive" means only 1 in 10 years is that warm — experienced gardeners with frost protection can try these dates.
| Planting Strategy | Last Spring Frost | First Fall Frost | Frost-Free Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conservative (safest) | May 27 | Oct 17 | 143 days |
| Cautious | May 19 | Oct 10 | 144 days |
| Average year | May 11 | Oct 6 | 148 days |
| Optimistic | May 4 | Sep 27 | 146 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 24 | Sep 9 | 138 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±33 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Yes — growing seasons are getting longer here (about 6 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
El Paso County has challenging growing conditions. Season extension and careful variety selection are essential.
Local Gardening Help in El Paso County
Free expert help is closer than you think. Your county's cooperative extension office connects you with trained gardeners, soil testing labs, and local programs — all specific to El Paso County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
El Paso County Colorado State University Extension Extension Office
Phone: 970-491-6281
Visit Extension Office Website →
Extension offices are run by land-grant universities and funded by the USDA. Their advice is free, research-based, and tailored to your county's specific conditions.
Master Gardener Program
Free gardening help from trained volunteers
Master Gardeners are community volunteers who complete 40–60 hours of university horticultural training. They answer gardening questions, diagnose plant problems, and offer workshops — all free.
Many extension offices run a Master Gardener hotline where you can call or email with photos of plant problems for free diagnosis.
Soil Testing
Available through your extension office
Before amending your soil, get it tested. Your extension office offers soil testing (typically $10–$25) that tells you exact pH, nutrient levels, and amendment recommendations specific to what you want to grow.
Services Available in El Paso County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in El Paso County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to El Paso County's soil and climate that big-box stores can't. Plants from local growers are typically hardier because they're already acclimated to your zone.
How to Find Them
Search for "nurseries near El Paso County CO" or "garden center El Paso County" on Google Maps. Also check with your extension office — they often maintain lists of reputable local nurseries and plant sales.
Community gardens & gardening groups
Community gardens are a great way to learn from experienced gardeners in your area, especially if you're limited on space. Search "community garden El Paso County CO" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "El Paso County Gardeners" or "Colorado Gardening" are also excellent for local advice and plant swaps.
What to Plant After Your Harvest
After your first crops finish, use the remaining frost-free days to grow a second round.
Show 6 more succession options
Sunlight & Day Length in Rush
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
For new gardeners: Day length is the trigger that tells lettuce, spinach, and cilantro to bolt. In Rush, knowing when that day-length threshold arrives helps you plant a final round in time to harvest before it bolts.
Longest Day
14.7 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.3 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
10.1 hr/day peak (summer)
Peak sun hours (green dashed line below) account for cloud cover — this is the usable direct sunlight your garden actually receives. Most vegetables need 6+ peak sun hours.
Onion tip: Your long summer days (14+ hours) support long-day onion varieties like Walla Walla, Sweet Spanish, and Ailsa Craig.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Daylight Hours | Peak Sun Hours | Day Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 9.6 hr | 5.3 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.5 hr | 6 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 7.2 hr | Short day |
| April | 13 hr | 7.4 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.1 hr | 8.3 hr | Long day |
| June | 14.7 hr | 10.1 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.5 hr | 9.9 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.5 hr | 8.8 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 8.5 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11 hr | 7.2 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.8 hr | 5.5 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.3 hr | 5 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Rush
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
For new gardeners: Lettuce germinates at 35°F. Beans want 60°F. Tomatoes 65°F+. Soil temp, not air temp, is what plants feel. Rush's monthly curve tells you when each crop actually has the conditions to take off.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil rarely reaches 60°F — use black plastic mulch to warm soil.
Best Month to Compost
Jul
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
2 months
Short season — insulate pile or use indoor vermicomposting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | -2°F | 6°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | -0°F | 4°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 5°F | 8°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 19°F | 18°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| May | 33°F | 30°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Jun | 43°F | 38°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Jul | 53°F | 46°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Aug | 55°F | 47°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Sep | 44°F | 45°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Oct | 30°F | 35°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Nov | 16°F | 25°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Dec | 3°F | 13°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
Highlighted rows = soil 60°F+ (safe for warm-season transplants). Compost finishes fastest during peak activity months.
Pest & Disease Pressure in Rush
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Why it matters: Two gardeners can grow identical seeds and get wildly different results based on pest pressure alone. Rush's climate sets a floor on what's possible without intervention.
Insect Pest Pressure
Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.
Disease Risk
Low disease risk — dry conditions reduce fungal problems.
Seasonal Risk
View 5 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Japanese beetles | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash bugs | Low | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Tomato hornworms | Low | Jul, Aug |
| Cabbage loopers | Low | May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
Organic pest management tips
- Maintain healthy soil with regular compost additions to build natural pest resistance
- Practice crop rotation annually to break pest cycles
- Encourage beneficial insects with flowering herbs like dill, fennel, and yarrow
Cover Crops for Rush
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
Quick context: Cover crops protect microbial life through winter and summer. Bare soil bakes; covered soil stays cooler, moister, and biologically active. The difference shows up in next year's crops.
Spring Cover Crops (3 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | May 17 | Jul 28 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | May 18 | Aug 11 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Apr 16 | Aug 4 | ✓ Yes | Living mulch, fixes nitrogen, permanent ground cover |
Summer Cover Crops (1 options) — Fill gaps and suppress weeds between plantings
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sunflowers | May 24 | Sep 22 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Fall Cover Crops (6 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austrian winter peas | Aug 1 | Apr 27 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Daikon radish | Aug 27 | Apr 20 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 21 | Apr 20 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Aug 24 | Apr 27 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jun 30 | Apr 20 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 11 | Apr 20 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Rush
For new gardeners: Wind is the silent water thief. Every breeze pulls moisture from leaves and soil. Rush's 0.0 mph average is one piece of the watering math: rainfall + irrigation must exceed evaporation + transpiration, and wind boosts both losses.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 15 mph Summer: 11 mph
Fall: 13 mph Winter: 14 mph
Prevailing wind: W. Windy area — plant a windbreak hedge on the W side of your garden.
Windbreak Benefit
6.5/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Moderate
Some terrain variation (939 ft range). Garden on slopes or higher ground if possible to avoid late-season frost pockets.
Rainwater Harvesting in Rush
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Why it matters: Building a rainwater system is mostly about doing the math: roof area × annual rainfall × 0.6 = gallons you could realistically capture. For Rush, that's your 0" times your roof.
Annual Collection
11,712 gal
Per 1,000 sq ft of roof area (at 80% collection efficiency)
Recommended Setup
7 rain barrels (55 gal each)
For a typical 500 sq ft garden. Serious collectors: consider a 1,500 gal tank.
Legal Status
Limited
Your state has quantity limits on rainwater collection — check local regulations before installing large systems.
Best Collection Months
Apr, May, Jul, Aug
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Jun, Nov, Dec
Dry months when you'll rely on stored water — size your storage for this gap.
Rainwater collection tips for your area
- Your county receives approximately 23.5 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 11,712 gallons annually
- Check CO state regulations — rainwater harvesting has quantity limits
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Jun, Nov, Dec)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Rush
107 vegetables matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Rush.
Show all 107 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Apr 6 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Aug 17 – Sep 21 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 16 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Aug 24 – Oct 12 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 28 | Jun 15 – Aug 17 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 25 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 28 | Jun 22 – Jul 20 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 28 | Aug 31 – Oct 26 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Mar 16 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 7 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | May 18 | — | — | Aug 17 – Oct 5 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 28 | Jun 22 – Jul 27 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 28 | Jul 13 – Aug 24 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 28 | Jun 22 – Jul 27 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 28 | Aug 10 – Oct 5 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Apr 6 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Aug 24 – Sep 28 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 28 | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Mar 16 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Aug 17 – Oct 12 | 80–120 |
| Carrots | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 28 | Jun 29 – Aug 3 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 28 | Jul 6 – Sep 7 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 28 | Aug 24 – Sep 28 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 28 | Aug 3 – Sep 28 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 28 | Jul 13 – Aug 24 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 28 | Jul 6 – Aug 24 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 28 | Aug 3 – Sep 14 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 28 | Jul 13 – Aug 24 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 28 | Jul 6 – Aug 3 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 16 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Aug 17 – Sep 21 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 28 | Jul 6 – Sep 7 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | May 18 | — | — | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | May 18 | — | — | Jul 20 – Aug 31 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 28 | May 25 – Jun 15 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Apr 6 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Jul 13 – Aug 10 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 28 | Sep 28 – Nov 9 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Apr 6 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 28 | Jun 22 – Jul 20 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Apr 6 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Aug 17 – Sep 21 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | May 18 | — | — | Aug 3 – Sep 14 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Mar 2 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 5 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 28 | Jun 29 – Aug 3 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 28 | Jul 6 – Aug 3 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 28 | Jul 27 – Sep 7 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 16 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 7 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Aug 25 | Nov 24 – Mar 9 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | May 18 | — | — | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 25 | — | Sep 28 – Dec 7 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Mar 2 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Aug 3 – Nov 9 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Apr 6 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Sep 7 – Oct 12 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Apr 6 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Aug 24 – Sep 21 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 28 | Jun 29 – Jul 27 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 28 | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | May 18 | — | — | Aug 17 – Sep 21 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 28 | Jun 29 – Aug 3 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 28 | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 28 | Aug 10 – Oct 26 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 28 | Aug 3 – Sep 14 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 28 | Jun 15 – Aug 24 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | May 18 | — | — | Jul 20 – Aug 31 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Mar 16 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Sep 7 – Nov 9 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Mar 16 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Aug 24 – Nov 9 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 28 | Jun 22 – Jul 27 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Apr 6 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Aug 3 – Sep 21 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 28 | May 18 – Jun 15 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 4 | Jul 28 | Jun 29 – Aug 24 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 28 | Jun 15 – Jul 13 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 28 | Jun 15 – Aug 17 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 28 | Jul 6 – Aug 10 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Mar 16 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Jul 20 – Aug 17 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Mar 16 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 28 | Aug 10 – Sep 28 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 28 | Jun 22 – Jul 20 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 28 | Aug 10 – Sep 21 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Apr 6 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Jul 13 – Aug 10 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 28 | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Mar 2 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Jul 27 – Oct 5 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 16 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 16 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 12 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Apr 6 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Aug 24 – Oct 12 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 28 | Jun 22 – Jul 27 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 28 | Jul 13 – Aug 17 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 28 | May 25 – Jun 15 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Jun 1 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 28 | Jul 27 – Sep 7 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 28 | Jul 20 – Aug 24 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 28 | Aug 10 – Sep 21 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 28 | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 28 | Jul 6 – Aug 3 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 16 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Jul 27 – Aug 31 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 28 | Aug 10 – Sep 28 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 23 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 16 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 28 | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | May 18 | — | — | Aug 10 – Oct 5 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Apr 6 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Aug 24 – Sep 21 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 28 | Jun 15 – Aug 17 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Apr 6 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 14 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Apr 6 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Aug 17 – Oct 12 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 25 | — | Sep 14 – Nov 9 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | May 18 | — | — | Jul 20 – Aug 31 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Mar 16 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Aug 24 – Oct 12 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 28 | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 16 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Jul 27 – Oct 5 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 16 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Jul 27 – Oct 5 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 28 | Jun 8 – Jul 13 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 11 | Jul 28 | Jun 22 – Jul 27 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Apr 6 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Aug 3 – Sep 21 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | May 18 | — | — | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Mar 16 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Aug 24 – Oct 12 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Mar 16 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Jul 20 – Aug 31 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Apr 6 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Rush
27 fruits matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Rush.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Jun 1 | — | Aug 31 – Dec 14 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Jun 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Jun 1 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Jun 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Jun 1 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Jun 1 | — | Aug 10 – Sep 14 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Jun 1 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | Jun 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | Jun 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Jun 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Jun 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Jun 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Jun 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Jun 1 | — | Aug 10 – Oct 5 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Jun 1 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | Jun 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Jun 1 | — | Aug 24 – Oct 5 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Jun 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | Jun 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | Jun 1 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Jun 1 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Jun 1 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Jun 1 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Quince | — | — | Jun 1 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Jun 1 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Jun 1 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Jun 1 | — | Aug 31 – Dec 14 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Rush
35 herbs matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Rush.
Show all 35 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 4 | Jul 28 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 4 | Jul 28 | Aug 3 – Oct 19 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 23 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 21 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 18 | — | Aug 17 – Nov 2 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 4 | Jul 28 | Jun 29 – Aug 17 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 4 | Jul 28 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 18 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 21 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 4 | Jul 28 | Jul 6 – Sep 14 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 4 | Jul 28 | Jun 15 – Aug 17 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 18 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 28 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 4 | Jul 28 | Jun 15 – Aug 17 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 18 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 28 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 4 | Jul 28 | Aug 17 – Oct 19 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 4 | Jul 28 | Jun 15 – Aug 17 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Mar 23 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 4 | Jul 28 | Jul 6 – Sep 14 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | May 18 | — | Aug 17 – Nov 2 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | May 18 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 28 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | May 18 | — | Aug 3 – Sep 28 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 28 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | May 18 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 7 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 28 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 28 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | May 18 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 28 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | May 18 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 28 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | May 18 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 28 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 4 | Jul 28 | Jul 6 – Sep 7 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 28 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | May 18 | — | Aug 3 – Sep 28 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | May 18 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | May 4 | Jul 28 | Jun 15 – Aug 17 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | May 18 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 28 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 23 | May 18 | May 25 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 21 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 28 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 18 | — | Sep 21 – Nov 30 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Rush
53 flowers matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Rush.
Show all 53 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Mar 23 | May 11 | May 11 | — | Jul 6 – Oct 12 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Aug 25 | Sep 22 – Oct 20 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | Apr 13 | — | May 11 | — | Jun 15 – Jul 13 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Mar 9 | — | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Oct 5 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | May 11 | Aug 25 | Jul 13 – Sep 28 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Mar 2 | — | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Oct 26 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Mar 9 | May 11 | May 18 | — | Aug 3 – Nov 16 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Mar 9 | — | May 18 | — | Jul 13 – Aug 17 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | May 11 | — | Jun 29 – Sep 28 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | Apr 13 | — | — | Jun 22 – Aug 3 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Apr 6 | May 18 | May 18 | — | Jul 20 – Nov 2 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Mar 9 | May 25 | May 25 | — | Jul 20 – Aug 24 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Mar 9 | May 18 | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Nov 16 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Apr 13 | May 11 | May 11 | — | Jul 20 – Oct 26 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Aug 25 | Jul 14 – Aug 4 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Aug 25 | Jul 21 – Aug 11 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Apr 13 | May 18 | May 18 | — | Aug 3 – Nov 16 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Mar 9 | — | May 18 | — | Aug 3 – Nov 16 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Mar 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 15 – Sep 14 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Mar 9 | May 25 | May 25 | — | Aug 17 – Nov 23 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Mar 9 | May 18 | May 18 | — | Jul 13 – Aug 17 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Mar 23 | May 18 | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Nov 30 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Mar 2 | — | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Oct 26 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | May 11 | May 11 | — | Jul 27 – Nov 9 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Mar 2 | — | May 18 | — | Aug 3 – Nov 16 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Aug 25 | Aug 11 – Sep 1 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Mar 2 | — | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Nov 2 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Mar 16 | — | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Nov 2 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | May 18 | — | Jul 13 – Aug 10 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Apr 13 | — | — | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Mar 2 | — | May 25 | — | Aug 3 – Sep 28 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Nov 2 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Mar 9 | — | Apr 27 | — | Jun 22 – Sep 14 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Mar 9 | May 18 | May 18 | — | Jul 13 – Aug 17 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Mar 30 | May 18 | May 18 | — | Jul 13 – Oct 12 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Apr 13 | May 18 | May 18 | — | Jul 13 – Nov 2 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Mar 2 | — | May 11 | Aug 11 | Jul 6 – Sep 7 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | May 18 | — | Jul 20 – Aug 24 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Mar 16 | — | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Nov 2 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Mar 9 | May 18 | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Oct 19 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Apr 6 | May 18 | May 18 | — | Jul 6 – Oct 19 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | Mar 30 | — | May 11 | — | Jun 22 – Jul 20 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Mar 2 | — | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Nov 16 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Mar 9 | — | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Nov 2 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Mar 9 | — | May 18 | — | Sep 7 – Nov 23 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Mar 2 | Apr 20 | May 11 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 28 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Apr 20 | May 18 | May 18 | — | Aug 10 – Nov 2 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Mar 23 | Apr 20 | May 11 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 31 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | Mar 30 | Apr 6 | May 11 | — | Jul 27 – Oct 5 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Aug 25 | Aug 4 – Sep 1 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Mar 2 | — | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Nov 2 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Mar 9 | May 11 | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Nov 16 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Apr 13 | May 18 | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Nov 2 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Rush
ZIP Codes in Rush
Click any ZIP to see its specific frost, soil, and climate measurements (some ZIPs differ noticeably from the town aggregate):
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in El Paso County.
Your El Paso County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for El Paso County (Zone 6a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.
The Gardener's Encyclopedia to Companion Planting
The pairings that make vegetables, herbs, and flowers grow better — and the ones that quietly wreck a bed.
- Proven pairings for 200+ vegetables, herbs, flowers, and fruits
- Full seed-starting + planting schedule with timing and spacing
- Bonus: square-foot gardening guide + printable seasonal planners
Seed Saving & Storage Guide
Most saved seeds go bad before next season. This shows exactly when to pick, how to dry, and where to store seeds from 200 plants so yours don't.
- 200 plants, step-by-step: life cycle, pollination type, isolation
- Exact temperature + humidity ranges that keep seeds viable
- Bonus: searchable Google Sheets tracker + custom GPT assistant
Composting Guide for Homesteaders
Turn kitchen scraps and yard waste into compost that actually feeds the garden — instead of a pile that smells, attracts pests, and never breaks down.
- 14 sections on composting methods, soil science, and troubleshooting
- The 7-step hot-compost system from start to finish
- Bonus tools: troubleshooting chart, safety guide, monitoring log