When to Plant Alpine Strawberries in Los Alamos County, NM
Alpine strawberries are small, intensely flavored wild-type strawberries that fruit continuously from spring to frost. They do not produce runners and make excellent edging plants.
Los Alamos County, New Mexico is in USDA Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is May 10 and the first fall frost is October 7, giving you a growing season of approximately 150 days.
At an elevation of 5,220 feet, Los Alamos County receives approximately 12.1 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly sandy loam soil. Summer highs average 87°F, providing good warmth for Alpine Strawberries during the growing season. Sandy soil warms quickly in spring — great for early planting — but Alpine Strawberries will need more frequent watering and organic matter to retain nutrients. With low rainfall, drip irrigation is essential for growing Alpine Strawberries successfully. Mulch heavily to conserve soil moisture.
Los Alamos County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sandy Loam
Soil pH
7-8.6
Drainage
Well Drained
Plant Planting Risk Windows
Percentages indicate frost risk at transplant. The 70% safe window means there is a 30% chance of frost after transplant — suitable for cold-hardy crops or gardeners with frost protection. The 90% safe window is best for tender plants.
Plant Water Budget
Water stress score is 10/10 — consider drought-tolerant varieties and mulching
Alpine Strawberries Planting Timeline — Los Alamos County, NM
Alpine Strawberries Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | May 31 | May 31 – Jun 14 |
| Harvest | August 30 | Aug 30 – Dec 13 |
· 12" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | — |
| May | Transplant Outdoors |
| June | Transplant Outdoors |
| July | — |
| August | Harvest |
| September | Harvest |
| October | Harvest |
| November | Harvest |
| December | Harvest |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Partial Shade (3-6 hours)
Water
Moderate — regular watering
Days to Maturity
90–180 days
Soil pH
5.5 – 6.8
USDA Zone
Zone 6a
Growing Season
150 days
Growing Tips for Los Alamos County
Start seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before transplanting. Unlike regular strawberries, alpines do not spread by runners. Harvest tiny, intensely aromatic berries frequently. Grow well in partial shade.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Level Up Your Garden
Alpine Strawberries in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Alpine Strawberries in Los Alamos County, NM?
Los Alamos County is in Zone 6a with an average last frost of May 10. Plan your Alpine Strawberries planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Los Alamos County, NM?
Los Alamos County, New Mexico is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is May 10 and first fall frost is October 7.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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