When to Plant Collard Greens in Apache County, AZ
Collard greens are a heat-tolerant member of the cabbage family with large, sturdy leaves. They are a Southern staple and one of the most nutritious leafy greens.
Apache County, Arizona is in USDA Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is May 20 and the first fall frost is October 10, giving you a growing season of approximately 143 days.
At an elevation of 7,720 feet, Apache County receives approximately 9.4 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly sandy loam soil. Summer highs average 92°F, providing good warmth for Collard Greens during the growing season. Sandy soil warms quickly in spring — great for early planting — but Collard Greens will need more frequent watering and organic matter to retain nutrients. With low rainfall, drip irrigation is essential for growing Collard Greens successfully. Mulch heavily to conserve soil moisture.
Apache County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sandy Loam
Soil pH
7.2-8.7
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
Collard Greens Planting Timeline — Apache County, AZ
Collard Greens Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | April 15 | Apr 15 – Apr 29 |
| Transplant Outdoors | May 20 | May 20 – Jun 3 |
| Direct Sow | May 6 | May 6 – May 27 |
| Fall Sowing | August 1 | Aug 1 – Aug 15 |
| Harvest | July 15 | Jul 15 – Sep 16 |
Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | Start Indoors |
| May | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| June | Transplant Outdoors |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Fall Sowing Harvest |
| September | Harvest |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
Water
Moderate — regular watering
Days to Maturity
55–75 days
Soil pH
6 – 7
USDA Zone
Zone 5b
Growing Season
143 days
Growing Tips for Apache County
Start seeds indoors or direct sow 4-6 weeks before last frost. Harvest lower leaves first, leaving the growing tip intact. Flavor improves after exposure to frost.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Level Up Your Garden
Collard Greens in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Collard Greens in Apache County, AZ?
Apache County is in Zone 5b with an average last frost of May 20. Plan your Collard Greens planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Apache County, AZ?
Apache County, Arizona is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is May 20 and first fall frost is October 10.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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