When to Plant Blueberries in Lincoln County, NM
Blueberries are long-lived shrubs producing sweet, antioxidant-rich berries. They require acidic soil and are attractive ornamental plants with fall color and spring flowers.
Lincoln County, New Mexico is in USDA Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is May 7 and the first fall frost is October 9, giving you a growing season of approximately 155 days.
At an elevation of 5,466 feet, Lincoln County receives approximately 16.3 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly sandy loam soil. Summer highs average 88°F, providing good warmth for Blueberries during the growing season. Sandy soil warms quickly in spring — great for early planting — but Blueberries will need more frequent watering and organic matter to retain nutrients. With low rainfall, drip irrigation is essential for growing Blueberries successfully. Mulch heavily to conserve soil moisture.
Lincoln County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sandy Loam
Soil pH
7-8.7
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
Blueberries Planting Timeline — Lincoln County, NM
Blueberries Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | May 28 | May 28 – Jun 11 |
· 48" apart · Rows 72" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | — |
| May | Transplant Outdoors |
| June | Transplant Outdoors |
| July | — |
| August | — |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
Water
Moderate — regular watering
Days to Maturity
730–1095 days
Soil pH
4.5 – 5.5
USDA Zone
Zone 6b
Growing Season
155 days
Growing Tips for Lincoln County
Plant at least two varieties for cross-pollination. Acidify soil with sulfur or pine needle mulch to maintain pH 4.5-5.5. Protect ripening berries from birds with netting.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Level Up Your Garden
Blueberries in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Blueberries in Lincoln County, NM?
Lincoln County is in Zone 6b with an average last frost of May 7. Plan your Blueberries planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Lincoln County, NM?
Lincoln County, New Mexico is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is May 7 and first fall frost is October 9.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Lincoln County gardeners in Zone 6b organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
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