When to plant Calendula in Baca County, CO
In Baca County, plant Calendula in spring between March 22 and April 12, once soil temps hold above 50°F. Baca County's last frost averages April 19, so time plantings around the expected last-frost window for best survival. For a fall crop, sow between and — roughly 50–70 days before the first frost on October 18.
When to Plant Calendula in Baca County, CO
Calendula (Calendula officinalis) is a cheerful, edible-flowered cool-season annual valued by herbalists, chefs, and gardeners alike. Its golden-orange petals are used in salves, teas, and as a saffron substitute. Hardy enough to tolerate light frosts, it blooms prolifically in spring and fall, taking a pause during the hottest weeks of summer.
Baca County, Colorado is in USDA Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 19 and the first fall frost is October 18, giving you a growing season of approximately 182 days.
At an elevation of 4,958 feet, Baca County receives approximately 12.3 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly loam soil. Summer highs average 90°F, providing good warmth for Calendula during the growing season. With low rainfall, drip irrigation is essential for growing Calendula successfully. Mulch heavily to conserve soil moisture.
Baca County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.3-7.9
Drainage
Well Drained
Monthly Watering Guide for Calendula
Calendula needs approximately 1 inches of water per week (4.3" per month). Here's how your county's rainfall compares month by month.
| Month | Calendula Needs | Rainfall | You Supplement | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | — | 0.8" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 0.7" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | — | 1" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Apr | 4.3" | 1.3" | 3" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| May | 4.3" | 1.4" | 2.9" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Jun | 4.3" | 1" | 3.3" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Jul | 4.3" | 1" | 3.3" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Aug | 4.3" | 1.2" | 3.1" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Sep | 4.3" | 1.1" | 3.2" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Oct | 4.3" | 1.1" | 3.2" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Nov | — | 0.8" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Dec | — | 0.7" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Apr–Oct in Baca County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Calendula Planting Timeline — Baca County, CO
Calendula Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 8 | Mar 8 – Mar 22 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 19 | Apr 19 – May 3 |
| Direct Sow | March 22 | Mar 22 – Apr 12 |
| Bloom | June 7 | Jun 7 – Sep 13 |
Plant 0.3" deep · 9" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Start Indoors Direct Sow |
| April | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| May | Transplant Outdoors |
| June | Bloom |
| July | Bloom |
| August | Bloom |
| September | Bloom |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
Low — drought tolerant
📅 Days to Maturity
50–70 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 5.5–7 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 6b
📆 Growing Season
182 days in Baca County
Growing Tips for Baca County
Direct-sow in early spring as soon as soil can be worked — seeds germinate in cool soil (50-65°F). In zones 7+, also sow in fall for winter/spring bloom. Deadhead consistently to extend bloom. Plants self-seed readily; save a few spent heads and allow them to drop. Harvest petals when flowers are fully open for best flavor and medicinal value.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Calendula in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Calendula in Baca County, CO?
Baca County is in Zone 6b with an average last frost of April 19. Plan your Calendula planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Baca County, CO?
Baca County, Colorado is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 19 and first fall frost is October 18.
When should I plant Calendula in Baca County, CO?
In Baca County, CO, plant Calendula after the last frost (around April 19) and before the first frost (around October 18). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Baca County, CO for Calendula?
Baca County sits in USDA Zone 6b. Calendula grows reliably in zones 2a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Calendula grow in Baca County's climate?
Yes — Calendula grows well in Baca County's temperate climate. Baca County averages a 182-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 19 and first frost around October 18.
Your Baca County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Baca County (Zone 6b). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.