When to Plant Caraway in Teller County, CO
Caraway is a biennial herb grown for its distinctive crescent-shaped seeds used in rye bread, sauerkraut, and European cuisine. The leaves and roots are also edible.
Teller County, Colorado is in USDA Zone 5a. The average last spring frost is May 11 and the first fall frost is October 6, giving you a growing season of approximately 148 days.
At an elevation of 6,538 feet, Teller County receives approximately 19.5 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly loam soil. Summer highs average 84°F, so choose short-season varieties of Caraway to ensure they mature before fall. With low rainfall, drip irrigation is essential for growing Caraway successfully. Mulch heavily to conserve soil moisture.
Teller County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.4-8.1
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 6/10 — consider drought-tolerant varieties and mulching
Caraway Planting Timeline — Teller County, CO
Caraway Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | April 6 | Apr 6 – Apr 20 |
| Transplant Outdoors | May 4 | May 4 – May 18 |
| Direct Sow | April 27 | Apr 27 – May 18 |
| Fall Sowing | July 28 | Jul 28 – Aug 11 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | Start Indoors Direct Sow |
| May | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| June | — |
| July | Fall Sowing |
| August | Fall Sowing |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
Water
Moderate — regular watering
Days to Maturity
365–450 days
Soil pH
6 – 7.5
USDA Zone
Zone 5a
Growing Season
148 days
Growing Tips for Teller County
Direct sow in spring or fall. Caraway produces seeds in its second year. Harvest seed heads when they turn brown. The young leaves can be used like parsley.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Level Up Your Garden
Caraway in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Caraway in Teller County, CO?
Teller County is in Zone 5a with an average last frost of May 11. Plan your Caraway planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Teller County, CO?
Teller County, Colorado is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5a. The average last spring frost is May 11 and first fall frost is October 6.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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