When to plant Calendula in Jackson County, CO
Plant Calendula in Jackson County during the brief May 30–June 20 window. With 83 frost-free days, fall plantings can't mature before September 4.
When to Plant Calendula in Jackson 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.
Jackson County, Colorado is in USDA Zone 4b. 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 feet, Jackson County receives approximately 20.9 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly loam soil. Summer highs average 80°F, so choose short-season varieties of Calendula to ensure they mature before fall.
Jackson County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.6-8.1
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 | — | 1.6" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 1.1" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | — | 1.9" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Apr | — | 2.3" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| May | — | 2.2" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Jun | 4.3" | 1.7" | 2.6" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Jul | 4.3" | 1.7" | 2.6" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Aug | 4.3" | 2.5" | 1.8" | 💧 Light watering |
| Sep | 4.3" | 1.5" | 2.8" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Oct | — | 2.1" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Nov | — | 1.4" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Dec | — | 1.1" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Jun–Sep in Jackson County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Calendula Planting Timeline — Jackson County, CO
Calendula Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | April 25 | Apr 25 – May 9 |
| Transplant Outdoors | June 13 | Jun 13 – Jun 27 |
| Direct Sow | May 30 | May 30 – Jun 20 |
| Bloom | August 1 | Aug 1 – Oct 17 |
Plant 0.3" deep · 9" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | Start Indoors |
| May | Start Indoors Direct Sow |
| June | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| July | — |
| August | Bloom |
| September | Bloom |
| October | Bloom |
| 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 4b
📆 Growing Season
83 days in Jackson County
Growing Tips for Jackson 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 Jackson County, CO?
Jackson County is in Zone 4b with an average last frost of June 13. Plan your Calendula planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Jackson County, CO?
Jackson County, Colorado is in USDA Hardiness Zone 4b. The average last spring frost is June 13 and first fall frost is September 4.
When should I plant Calendula in Jackson County, CO?
In Jackson County, CO, plant Calendula after the last frost (around June 13) and before the first frost (around September 4). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Jackson County, CO for Calendula?
Jackson County sits in USDA Zone 4b. Calendula grows reliably in zones 2a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Calendula grow in Jackson County's climate?
Yes — Calendula grows well in Jackson County's temperate climate. Jackson County averages a 83-day frost-free season, with last frost around June 13 and first frost around September 4.
Your Jackson County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Jackson County (Zone 4b). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.