When to plant Sunflower in Baca County, CO
In Baca County, plant Sunflower in spring between April 19 and May 10, 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 70–100 days before the first frost on October 18.
When to Plant Sunflower in Baca County, CO
Sunflower (Helianthus annuus) is a fast-growing North American native annual famous for its towering stems and brilliant yellow heads. It thrives in full sun and heat, producing large, pollen-rich blooms that attract bees, butterflies, and seed-eating birds. Varieties range from 18-inch dwarfs to 12-foot giants and nearly every color except blue.
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 Sunflower during the growing season. With low rainfall, drip irrigation is essential for growing Sunflower successfully. Mulch heavily to conserve soil moisture.
Baca County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Sunflower Planting Timeline — Baca County, CO
Sunflower Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 29 | Mar 29 – Apr 12 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 19 | Apr 19 – May 3 |
| Direct Sow | April 19 | Apr 19 – May 10 |
| Bloom | July 12 | Jul 12 – Oct 11 |
Plant 1" deep · 18" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Start Indoors |
| April | Start Indoors Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| May | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| June | — |
| July | Bloom |
| August | Bloom |
| September | Bloom |
| October | Bloom |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
Low — drought tolerant
📅 Days to Maturity
70–100 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7.5 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 6b
📆 Growing Season
182 days in Baca County
Growing Tips for Baca County
Direct-sow 1 inch deep after last frost; germination takes 7-14 days at 65-75°F soil. Sunflowers dislike root disturbance so direct sowing is strongly preferred over transplanting. Plant in succession every 2 weeks for extended bloom. Stake tall varieties. Avoid overwatering — they tolerate drought once established. Birds will self-deadhead seed heads; leave them up through fall for wildlife.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
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Sunflower in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Sunflower in Baca County, CO?
Baca County is in Zone 6b with an average last frost of April 19. Plan your Sunflower 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 Sunflower in Baca County, CO?
In Baca County, CO, plant Sunflower 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 Sunflower?
Baca County sits in USDA Zone 6b. Sunflower grows reliably in zones 2a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Sunflower grow in Baca County's climate?
Yes — Sunflower 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.