Jackson County, CO — Planting Guide
Jackson County is in USDA Zone 3b. The average last spring frost is June 13 and the first fall frost is September 4, giving you a growing season of approximately 83 days.
At an elevation of 5,388 ft, Jackson County receives approximately 20.9 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 80°F with winter lows around -8°F. The predominant soil type is Loam.
Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 27 days year to year — ranging from May 29 in warm years to June 25 in cold years. The growing season is trending longer by about 0.6 days per decade. Jackson County scores 48/100 (Moderate) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
3b (-35°F to -30°F min)
❄️ Last Frost
June 13
🍂 First Frost
September 4
📅 Growing Season
83 days
⛰️ Elevation
5,388 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
20.9 in
Monthly Watering Calendar
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 1.6 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.1 in | 5 days | — | None |
| Mar | 1.9 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Apr | 2.3 in | 7 days | — | None |
| May | 2.2 in | 8 days | 2.1 in | High |
| Jun | 1.7 in | 5 days | 2.6 in | High |
| Jul | 1.7 in | 6 days | 2.6 in | High |
| Aug | 2.5 in | 7 days | 1.8 in | High |
| Sep | 1.5 in | 5 days | 2.8 in | High |
| Oct | 2.1 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Nov | 1.4 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Dec | 1.1 in | 7 days | — | None |
Annual total: 21.1 in. Water needs vary by crop — tomatoes need ~1.2"/week while herbs like rosemary need only 0.3"/week. Check individual plant pages for crop-specific water budgets that factor in your county's rainfall and soil drainage.
Jackson County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.6-8.1
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data from 3 stations
Beginners: Plant frost-sensitive crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) after the "Safe" date on the left. Harvest or cover them before the "Protect by" date on the right. Hardy crops (lettuce, peas, kale) can go in the yellow transition zones.
How to read this table: "Conservative" means you're safe from frost 9 out of 10 years — best for beginners and frost-sensitive crops. "Average year" is the typical date. "Aggressive" means only 1 in 10 years is that warm — experienced gardeners with frost protection can try these dates.
| Planting Strategy | Last Spring Frost | First Fall Frost | Frost-Free Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conservative (safest) | Jun 25 | Sep 19 | 86 days |
| Cautious | Jun 20 | Sep 11 | 83 days |
| Average year | Jun 13 | Sep 4 | 83 days |
| Optimistic | Jun 8 | Aug 28 | 81 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | May 29 | Aug 9 | 72 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±27 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Slightly — seasons are trending a bit longer (0.6 days/decade). Historical frost dates are still reliable for planning.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Jackson County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Jackson County
Free expert help is closer than you think. Your county's cooperative extension office connects you with trained gardeners, soil testing labs, and local programs — all specific to Jackson County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Jackson County Colorado State University Extension Extension Office
Phone: 970-491-6281
Visit Extension Office Website →
Extension offices are run by land-grant universities and funded by the USDA. Their advice is free, research-based, and tailored to your county's specific conditions.
Master Gardener Program
Free gardening help from trained volunteers
Master Gardeners are community volunteers who complete 40–60 hours of university horticultural training. They answer gardening questions, diagnose plant problems, and offer workshops — all free.
Many extension offices run a Master Gardener hotline where you can call or email with photos of plant problems for free diagnosis.
Soil Testing
Available through your extension office
Before amending your soil, get it tested. Your extension office offers soil testing (typically $10–$25) that tells you exact pH, nutrient levels, and amendment recommendations specific to what you want to grow.
Services Available in Jackson County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Jackson County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Jackson County's soil and climate that big-box stores can't. Plants from local growers are typically hardier because they're already acclimated to your zone.
How to Find Them
Search for "nurseries near Jackson County CO" or "garden center Jackson County" on Google Maps. Also check with your extension office — they often maintain lists of reputable local nurseries and plant sales.
Community gardens & gardening groups
Community gardens are a great way to learn from experienced gardeners in your area, especially if you're limited on space. Search "community garden Jackson County CO" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Jackson County Gardeners" or "Colorado Gardening" are also excellent for local advice and plant swaps.
What to Plant After Your Harvest
After your first crops finish, use the remaining frost-free days to grow a second round.
Sunlight & Day Length
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Longest Day
14.9 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.1 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
10.7 hr/day peak (summer)
Peak sun hours (green dashed line below) account for cloud cover — this is the usable direct sunlight your garden actually receives. Most vegetables need 6+ peak sun hours.
Onion tip: Your long summer days (14+ hours) support long-day onion varieties like Walla Walla, Sweet Spanish, and Ailsa Craig.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Daylight Hours | Peak Sun Hours | Day Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 9.4 hr | 5.3 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.4 hr | 6.1 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 6.7 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.1 hr | 7.3 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.3 hr | 8.9 hr | Long day |
| June | 14.9 hr | 10.7 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.6 hr | 10.4 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.6 hr | 8.9 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.3 hr | 8.3 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.9 hr | 7.3 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.7 hr | 5.9 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.1 hr | 5.2 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting Calendar
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil rarely reaches 60°F — use black plastic mulch to warm soil.
Best Month to Compost
Jul
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
2 months
Short season — insulate pile or use indoor vermicomposting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | -6°F | 3°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | -8°F | 0°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 5°F | 8°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 22°F | 18°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| May | 34°F | 32°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Jun | 49°F | 43°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Jul | 53°F | 48°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Aug | 56°F | 50°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Sep | 44°F | 44°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Oct | 34°F | 36°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Nov | 16°F | 25°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Dec | 1°F | 13°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
Highlighted rows = soil 60°F+ (safe for warm-season transplants). Compost finishes fastest during peak activity months.
Pest & Disease Pressure in Jackson County
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Insect Pest Pressure
Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.
Disease Risk
Low disease risk — dry conditions reduce fungal problems.
Seasonal Risk
View 4 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Low | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Cabbage worms | Low | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Flea beetles | Low | May, Jun, Jul |
| Slugs | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
Organic pest management tips
- Maintain healthy soil with regular compost additions to build natural pest resistance
- Practice crop rotation annually to break pest cycles
- Encourage beneficial insects with flowering herbs like dill, fennel, and yarrow
Cover Crops for Jackson County
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with county-specific planting dates.
Spring Cover Crops (2 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Jun 18 | Jul 3 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| White clover | May 17 | Jul 3 | ✓ Yes | Living mulch, fixes nitrogen, permanent ground cover |
Summer Cover Crops (1 options) — Fill gaps and suppress weeds between plantings
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sunflowers | Jul 13 | Aug 14 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Fall Cover Crops (3 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oats | Aug 4 | May 30 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | May 31 | May 30 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jun 15 | May 30 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 16 mph Summer: 11 mph
Fall: 11 mph Winter: 14 mph
Prevailing wind: W. Windy area — plant a windbreak hedge on the W side of your garden.
Windbreak Benefit
7/10
Strongly recommended — a windbreak (fence, hedge, or row of tall crops like corn or sunflowers) will significantly improve garden yields.
Frost Pocket Risk
High
Hilly terrain with 1,917 ft of elevation range — cold air pools in low spots. Avoid planting frost-sensitive crops in valleys.
Rainwater Harvesting Potential
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Annual Collection
10,516 gal
Per 1,000 sq ft of roof area (at 80% collection efficiency)
Recommended Setup
7 rain barrels (55 gal each)
For a typical 500 sq ft garden. Serious collectors: consider a 1,750 gal tank.
Legal Status
Limited
Your state has quantity limits on rainwater collection — check local regulations before installing large systems.
Best Collection Months
Apr, May, Aug, Oct
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Feb, Nov, Dec
Dry months when you'll rely on stored water — size your storage for this gap.
Rainwater collection tips for your area
- Your county receives approximately 21.1 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 10,516 gallons annually
- Check CO state regulations — rainwater harvesting has quantity limits
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Feb, Nov, Dec)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
Soil & Growing Conditions in Jackson County
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH 6.6–8.1 · Well Drained drainage
Good candidate for raised beds to maximise drainage and extend the season.
Watering Needs
Drought stress: 5.5/10
Moderate drought pressure. Drip irrigation and mulching are highly recommended to maintain soil moisture through summer.
Season Tips
83-day frost-free season
A short season means indoor starts are critical for warm-season crops. Prioritise cold-hardy, fast-maturing varieties and use row covers to extend autumn harvests.
Free Garden Planner
Plan your entire garden season — organize planting dates, track what you're growing, and know exactly when to start seeds, transplant, and harvest.
Recommended for Your Garden
Test your soil pH, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium levels before planting.
Get instant, accurate soil pH readings to fine-tune your amendments.
Boost soil fertility and structure with rich, well-aged organic compost.
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Jackson County
87 vegetables that grow well in Zone 3b with planting dates for Jackson County.
Show all 87 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | May 2 | Jun 27 | Jul 4 | Sep 26 – Oct 31 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Apr 11 | Jun 27 | Jul 4 | Oct 3 – Nov 7 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | May 2 | Jun 6 | Jun 13 | Jul 18 – Sep 19 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Jun 27 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Jun 6 | — | Aug 1 – Aug 29 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | May 2 | Jun 6 | Jun 13 | Oct 3 – Oct 17 | 110–150 |
| Black Beans | — | Jun 27 | — | Sep 26 – Oct 31 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | May 2 | Jun 6 | Jun 13 | Jul 25 – Aug 29 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | May 2 | Jun 6 | Jun 13 | Aug 15 – Sep 26 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | May 2 | Jun 6 | Jun 13 | Jul 25 – Aug 29 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | May 2 | Jun 6 | Jun 13 | Sep 12 – Oct 17 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | May 2 | Jun 27 | Jul 4 | Oct 3 – Nov 7 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | May 2 | Jun 6 | Jun 13 | Aug 15 – Oct 10 | 60–100 |
| Carrots | — | Jun 6 | — | Aug 8 – Sep 12 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | May 2 | Jun 6 | Jun 13 | Aug 8 – Oct 10 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | May 2 | Jun 6 | Jun 13 | Sep 26 – Oct 17 | 100–120 |
| Celery | May 2 | Jun 6 | Jun 13 | Sep 5 – Oct 17 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | May 2 | Jun 6 | Jun 13 | Aug 15 – Sep 26 | 60–90 |
| Chard | May 2 | Jun 6 | Jun 13 | Aug 8 – Sep 26 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | May 2 | Jun 6 | Jun 13 | Sep 5 – Oct 17 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | May 2 | Jun 6 | Jun 13 | Aug 15 – Sep 26 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | May 2 | Jun 6 | Jun 13 | Aug 8 – Sep 5 | 50–70 |
| Collard Greens | May 2 | Jun 6 | Jun 13 | Aug 8 – Oct 10 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Jun 27 | — | Aug 29 – Oct 24 | 60–100 |
| Cress | May 2 | Jun 6 | Jun 13 | Jun 27 – Jul 18 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | May 2 | Jun 27 | Jul 4 | Aug 22 – Sep 19 | 45–60 |
| Cucumber | May 2 | Jun 27 | Jul 4 | Aug 29 – Oct 24 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Jun 6 | — | Aug 1 – Aug 29 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | May 2 | Jun 27 | Jul 4 | Sep 26 – Oct 31 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Jun 27 | — | Sep 12 – Oct 24 | 75–100 |
| Endive | May 2 | Jun 6 | Jun 13 | Aug 1 – Sep 5 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | May 2 | Jun 6 | Jun 13 | Aug 8 – Sep 5 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | May 2 | Jun 6 | Jun 13 | Aug 29 – Oct 10 | 75–100 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | Jun 27 | — | Aug 22 – Oct 17 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Jun 27 | Oct 31 | 120–180 |
| Hubbard Squash | May 2 | Jun 27 | Jul 4 | Oct 17 – Nov 7 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | May 2 | Jun 27 | Jul 4 | Oct 3 – Oct 31 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | May 2 | Jun 6 | Jun 13 | Aug 1 – Aug 29 | 45–60 |
| Kale | May 2 | Jun 6 | Jun 13 | Aug 8 – Oct 3 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Jun 27 | — | Sep 26 – Oct 31 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | May 2 | Jun 6 | Jun 13 | Aug 1 – Sep 5 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | May 2 | Jun 6 | Jun 13 | Jul 18 – Aug 22 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | May 2 | Jun 6 | Jun 13 | Sep 12 – Oct 17 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | May 2 | Jun 6 | Jun 13 | Sep 5 – Oct 17 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | May 2 | Jun 6 | Jun 13 | Jul 18 – Sep 26 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Jun 27 | — | Aug 29 – Oct 10 | 60–90 |
| Mache | May 2 | Jun 6 | Jun 13 | Jul 25 – Aug 29 | 40–60 |
| Microgreens | May 2 | Jun 6 | Jun 13 | Jun 20 – Jul 18 | 7–21 |
| Mizuna | May 2 | Jun 6 | Jun 13 | Jul 18 – Aug 15 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | May 2 | Jun 6 | Jun 13 | Jul 18 – Sep 19 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | May 2 | Jun 6 | Jun 13 | Aug 8 – Sep 12 | 55–75 |
| Onion | May 2 | Jun 6 | Jun 13 | Sep 12 – Oct 17 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | May 2 | Jun 6 | Jun 13 | Jul 25 – Aug 22 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Jun 6 | — | Sep 19 – Oct 10 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | May 2 | Jun 27 | Jul 4 | Aug 22 – Sep 19 | 45–60 |
| Peas | May 2 | Jun 6 | Jun 13 | Aug 8 – Oct 3 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Mar 28 | Jun 27 | Jul 4 | Sep 5 – Nov 7 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Apr 11 | Jun 27 | Jul 4 | Aug 29 – Oct 24 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Apr 11 | Jun 27 | Jul 4 | Sep 12 – Nov 7 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | May 2 | Jun 27 | Jul 4 | Oct 3 – Nov 7 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | May 2 | Jun 6 | Jun 13 | Jul 25 – Aug 29 | 40–60 |
| Radish | — | Jun 6 | — | Jul 4 – Jul 25 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Jul 11 | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | May 2 | Jun 6 | Jun 13 | Aug 29 – Oct 10 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Jun 6 | — | Aug 29 – Oct 3 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Jun 6 | — | Sep 19 – Oct 10 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | May 2 | Jun 6 | Jun 13 | Aug 22 – Oct 17 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | May 2 | Jun 6 | Jun 13 | Aug 8 – Sep 5 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Apr 11 | Jun 27 | Jul 4 | Sep 5 – Oct 10 | 60–80 |
| Shiso | Apr 18 | Jun 20 | Jul 4 | Aug 29 – Oct 24 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Apr 11 | Jun 27 | Jul 4 | Aug 29 – Oct 24 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | May 2 | Jun 6 | Jun 13 | Aug 8 – Oct 3 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Jun 27 | — | Sep 19 – Oct 31 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | May 2 | Jun 27 | Jul 4 | Oct 3 – Oct 31 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | May 2 | Jun 6 | Jun 13 | Jul 18 – Sep 19 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | May 2 | Jun 27 | Jul 4 | Aug 22 – Oct 24 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | May 2 | Jun 27 | Jul 4 | Sep 26 – Nov 7 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Jun 27 | Oct 17 – Oct 31 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Apr 11 | Jun 27 | Jul 4 | Sep 12 – Oct 31 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Jun 27 | — | Aug 29 – Oct 10 | 60–90 |
| Tatsoi | May 2 | Jun 6 | Jun 13 | Jul 18 – Aug 22 | 35–50 |
| Tomatoes | Apr 11 | Jun 27 | Jul 4 | Sep 5 – Nov 7 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Jun 6 | — | Jul 18 – Aug 22 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | May 2 | Jun 6 | Jun 13 | Jul 25 – Aug 29 | 40–60 |
| Wax Beans | — | Jun 27 | — | Aug 22 – Oct 17 | 50–65 |
| Zucchini | May 2 | Jun 27 | Jul 4 | Aug 22 – Oct 17 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Jackson County
15 fruits that grow well in Zone 3b with planting dates for Jackson County.
Show all 15 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Jul 11 | Oct 10 – Nov 14 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Jul 11 | — | 730–1095 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Jul 11 | — | 730–1095 |
| Cranberries | — | — | Jul 11 | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | Jul 11 | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Jul 11 | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Jul 11 | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Jul 11 | — | 730–1095 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Jul 11 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | Jul 11 | — | 730–1095 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Jul 11 | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | Jul 11 | — | 730–1095 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Jul 11 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Jul 11 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Jul 11 | Oct 10 – Nov 14 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Jackson County
22 herbs that grow well in Zone 3b with planting dates for Jackson County.
Show all 22 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | May 2 | Jun 6 | Jun 6 | — | 365–730 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Jun 20 | Sep 19 – Oct 24 | 90–120 |
| Borage | May 2 | Jun 6 | Jun 6 | Aug 1 – Sep 19 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | May 2 | Jun 6 | Jun 6 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Jun 20 | Aug 22 – Oct 24 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | May 2 | Jun 6 | Jun 6 | Aug 8 – Oct 10 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | May 2 | Jun 6 | Jun 6 | Jul 18 – Sep 19 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Jun 20 | Aug 22 – Oct 24 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | May 2 | Jun 6 | Jun 6 | Jul 18 – Sep 19 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Jun 20 | Aug 22 – Oct 24 | 60–90 |
| Dill | May 2 | Jun 6 | Jun 6 | Jul 18 – Sep 19 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | Jun 20 | Oct 24 | 120–180 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Jun 20 | Aug 22 – Oct 24 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Jun 20 | Sep 5 – Oct 24 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Jun 20 | Aug 29 – Oct 24 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Jun 20 | Aug 22 – Oct 10 | 60–70 |
| Lovage | — | — | Jun 20 | Aug 29 – Oct 24 | 70–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Jun 20 | Aug 22 – Oct 24 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | May 2 | Jun 6 | Jun 6 | Aug 8 – Oct 10 | 60–80 |
| Sorrel | May 2 | Jun 6 | Jun 6 | Jul 18 – Sep 19 | 40–60 |
| Valerian | — | — | Jun 20 | Oct 24 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | Jun 20 | Sep 19 – Oct 24 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Jackson County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Jackson County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Jackson County, CO?
Jackson County is in USDA Hardiness Zone 3b. This zone classification determines which perennial plants survive winter and sets the baseline for frost timing across the county.
When is the last frost in Jackson County, CO?
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Jackson County falls around June 13. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between May 29 and June 25 — a 27-day window of variability. Use June 25 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Jackson County, CO?
The median first fall frost in Jackson County arrives around September 4. In cold years it can arrive as early as August 9; in mild years as late as September 19. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Jackson County?
Jackson County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 83 days. Focus on short-season varieties and start warm-season crops indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost. Climate records show the growing season is trending longer by about 0.6 days per decade.
What is the soil like in Jackson County for gardening?
Jackson County has predominantly Loam soil with a pH range of 6.6–8.1 and Well Drained drainage. Most vegetables and herbs grow well with standard composting and seasonal soil amendment.
What is grown commercially in Jackson County?
Jackson County has commercial agriculture that includes Cattle, Hay, Wheat, Sugar Beets, Barley. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Jackson County a good location for home gardening?
Jackson County scores 48/100 (Moderate) on our Microclimate Index, which combines frost reliability, drought pressure, soil challenge, elevation risk, and long-term climate trend. Gardening here benefits from close attention to frost timing and season extension due to the challenging microclimate factors.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Jackson County gardeners in Zone 3b organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
Get Your Free Garden Planner →Free download. Plan your entire garden season in minutes.
