When to plant Zucchini in Chaffee County, CO
In Chaffee County, Zucchini is a single-season spring crop — there's no second fall window. Plant June 23–July 14 for an 45–60-day harvest, finishing well before the September 7 first frost.
When to Plant Zucchini in Chaffee County, CO
Zucchini is an incredibly prolific summer squash that can produce an abundance of fruit from just a few plants. It is versatile in the kitchen from grilling to baking.
Chaffee County, Colorado is in USDA Zone 5b. 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 7,788 feet, Chaffee County receives approximately 18.6 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly loam soil. Summer highs average 86°F, providing good warmth for Zucchini during the growing season. With low rainfall, drip irrigation is essential for growing Zucchini successfully. Mulch heavily to conserve soil moisture.
Chaffee County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
How Much Zucchini to Grow
For a family of 4, plant approximately 4 zucchini plants in about 8 sq ft. In Chaffee County's 83-day season, you'll have plenty of time for a full harvest. Plan your garden layout →
Zucchini Planting Timeline — Chaffee County, CO
Zucchini Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | May 12 | May 12 – May 26 |
| Transplant Outdoors | June 30 | Jun 30 – Jul 14 |
| Direct Sow | June 23 | Jun 23 – Jul 14 |
| Harvest | August 18 | Aug 18 – Oct 13 |
Plant 1" deep · 30" apart · Rows 42" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | — |
| May | Start Indoors |
| June | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| July | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| August | Harvest |
| September | Harvest |
| October | Harvest |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
Moderate — regular watering
📅 Days to Maturity
45–60 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7.5 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 5b
📆 Growing Season
83 days in Chaffee County
Growing Tips for Chaffee County
Direct sow after last frost. Harvest when fruits are 6-8 inches long for best flavor and texture. Check plants daily in summer as fruits can double in size overnight.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Zucchini in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Zucchini in Chaffee County, CO?
Chaffee County is in Zone 5b with an average last frost of June 16. Plan your Zucchini planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Chaffee County, CO?
Chaffee County, Colorado is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is June 16 and first fall frost is September 7.
When should I plant Zucchini in Chaffee County, CO?
In Chaffee County, CO, plant Zucchini after the last frost (around June 16) and before the first frost (around September 7). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Chaffee County, CO for Zucchini?
Chaffee County sits in USDA Zone 5b. Zucchini grows reliably in zones 3a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Zucchini grow in Chaffee County's climate?
Yes — Zucchini grows well in Chaffee County's temperate climate. Chaffee County averages a 83-day frost-free season, with last frost around June 16 and first frost around September 7.
Your Chaffee County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Chaffee County (Zone 5b). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.