When to plant Chard in Jackson County, CO
The best window to plant Chard in Jackson County, is June 6–June 27, when soil warms to 50°F. Last frost typically hits June 13; first frost September 4. A second sowing from June 12 to June 26 extends the harvest into fall.
When to Plant Chard in Jackson County, CO
Swiss chard is a colorful, heat-tolerant green with large crinkled leaves and vibrant stalks in red, yellow, and white. Both the leaves and stems are edible and nutritious.
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 Chard 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 Chard
Chard needs approximately 1 inches of water per week (4.3" per month). Here's how your county's rainfall compares month by month.
| Month | Chard 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.
Chard Planting Timeline — Jackson County, CO
Chard Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | May 2 | May 2 – May 16 |
| Transplant Outdoors | June 13 | Jun 13 – Jun 27 |
| Direct Sow | June 6 | Jun 6 – Jun 27 |
| Harvest | August 8 | Aug 8 – Sep 26 |
| Fall Sowing | June 12 | Jun 12 – Jun 26 |
Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | — |
| May | Start Indoors |
| June | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow Fall Sowing |
| July | — |
| August | Harvest |
| September | Harvest |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Partial Shade (3-6 hours)
💧 Water
Moderate — regular watering
📅 Days to Maturity
50–60 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 4b
📆 Growing Season
83 days in Jackson County
Growing Tips for Jackson County
Direct sow or transplant after last frost. Harvest outer leaves regularly to encourage continuous production. Chard tolerates both heat and light frost.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Chard in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Chard in Jackson County, CO?
Jackson County is in Zone 4b with an average last frost of June 13. Plan your Chard 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 Chard in Jackson County, CO?
In Jackson County, CO, plant Chard 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 Chard?
Jackson County sits in USDA Zone 4b. Chard grows reliably in zones 2a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Chard grow in Jackson County's climate?
Yes — Chard 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.