When to plant Caraway in Boulder County, CO
Boulder County sits in USDA Zone 6a. Plant Caraway between April 30 (after last frost on May 14) and May 21. A second sowing from July 18 to August 1 extends the harvest into fall.
When to Plant Caraway in Boulder 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.
Boulder County, Colorado is in USDA Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is May 14 and the first fall frost is September 26, giving you a growing season of approximately 135 days.
At an elevation of 7,657 feet, Boulder County receives approximately 22.2 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly loam soil. Summer highs average 86°F, providing good warmth for Caraway during the growing season.
Boulder County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Caraway Planting Timeline — Boulder County, CO
Caraway Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | April 9 | Apr 9 – Apr 23 |
| Transplant Outdoors | May 7 | May 7 – May 21 |
| Direct Sow | April 30 | Apr 30 – May 21 |
| Fall Sowing | July 18 | Jul 18 – Aug 1 |
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
Needs 6–7.5 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 6a
📆 Growing Season
135 days in Boulder County
Growing Tips for Boulder 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
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Caraway in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Caraway in Boulder County, CO?
Boulder County is in Zone 6a with an average last frost of May 14. Plan your Caraway planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Boulder County, CO?
Boulder County, Colorado is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is May 14 and first fall frost is September 26.
When should I plant Caraway in Boulder County, CO?
In Boulder County, CO, plant Caraway after the last frost (around May 14) and before the first frost (around September 26). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Boulder County, CO for Caraway?
Boulder County sits in USDA Zone 6a. Caraway grows reliably in zones 3a through 9b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Caraway grow in Boulder County's climate?
Yes — Caraway grows well in Boulder County's temperate climate. Boulder County averages a 135-day frost-free season, with last frost around May 14 and first frost around September 26.
Your Boulder County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Boulder County (Zone 6a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.