When to Plant Scarlet Runner Beans in Pitkin County, CO
Scarlet runner beans are ornamental and edible climbing beans with vivid red flowers that attract hummingbirds. Both the young pods and mature beans are edible.
Pitkin County, Colorado is in USDA Zone 4a. The average last spring frost is June 16 and the first fall frost is September 7, giving you a growing season of approximately 83 days.
At an elevation of 6,411 feet, Pitkin County receives approximately 17.8 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly loam soil. Summer highs average 82°F, so choose short-season varieties of Scarlet Runner Beans to ensure they mature before fall. With low rainfall, drip irrigation is essential for growing Scarlet Runner Beans successfully. Mulch heavily to conserve soil moisture.
Pitkin County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.6-8.3
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
Scarlet Runner Beans Planting Timeline — Pitkin County, CO
Scarlet Runner Beans Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | April 14 | Apr 14 – Apr 28 |
| Transplant Outdoors | July 7 | Jul 7 – Jul 21 |
| Direct Sow | June 30 | Jun 30 – Jul 21 |
| Harvest | September 8 | Sep 8 – Oct 13 |
Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | Start Indoors |
| May | — |
| June | Direct Sow |
| July | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| August | — |
| September | Harvest |
| October | Harvest |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
Water
Moderate — regular watering
Days to Maturity
60–80 days
Soil pH
6 – 7
USDA Zone
Zone 4a
Growing Season
83 days
Growing Tips for Pitkin County
Provide tall trellising for vigorous vines. Direct sow after frost. Harvest pods young for snap beans or let mature for shelling beans. Tubers are perennial in mild climates.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Level Up Your Garden
Scarlet Runner Beans in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Scarlet Runner Beans in Pitkin County, CO?
Pitkin County is in Zone 4a with an average last frost of June 16. Plan your Scarlet Runner Beans planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Pitkin County, CO?
Pitkin County, Colorado is in USDA Hardiness Zone 4a. The average last spring frost is June 16 and first fall frost is September 7.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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