Kiowa County, CO — Planting Guide
Your May planting checklist for Kiowa County, Colorado
Welcome to May in Zone 5b. These are the moves that will have the biggest impact on your growing season.
-
Move basil, cucumber, and peppers from tray to bed
Harden off for 7 days — a little more sun each day — before planting. That's the difference between a seedling that thrives and one that stalls.
-
Scatter basil, cucumber, and green beans into prepared beds
Succession planting is the secret here. Put in a row now, another in 2 weeks, a third in 4.
-
Basket week: radish, cress, and microgreens
The more you pick, the more the plant produces. Letting fruit overripen tells the plant it's time to stop.
Before June arrives, get these ready
- Starting indoors: basil, cucumber, and kale
- First harvests: carrots, kale, and lettuce
Kiowa County is in USDA Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is April 29 and the first fall frost is October 9, giving you a growing season of approximately 163 days.
At an elevation of 7,992 ft, Kiowa County receives approximately 19.1 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 83°F with winter lows around 13°F. The predominant soil type is Loam.
Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 26 days year to year — ranging from April 16 in warm years to May 13 in cold years. Kiowa County scores 40/100 (Moderate) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
5b (°F to °F min)
❄️ Last Frost
April 29
🍂 First Frost
October 9
📅 Growing Season
163 days
⛰️ Elevation
7,992 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
19.1 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 | 1.2 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1 in | 5 days | — | None |
| Mar | 1.5 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Apr | 2.1 in | 7 days | 2.2 in | High |
| May | 2.4 in | 8 days | 1.9 in | High |
| Jun | 1.2 in | 4 days | 3.1 in | Critical |
| Jul | 1.9 in | 5 days | 2.4 in | High |
| Aug | 2.1 in | 6 days | 2.2 in | High |
| Sep | 1.4 in | 5 days | 2.9 in | High |
| Oct | 1.7 in | 5 days | 2.6 in | High |
| Nov | 1.4 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Dec | 1.2 in | 5 days | — | None |
Annual total: 19.1 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.
Kiowa County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.3-8
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) | May 13 | Oct 24 | 164 days |
| Cautious | May 4 | Oct 13 | 162 days |
| Average year | Apr 29 | Oct 9 | 163 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 25 | Oct 6 | 164 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 16 | Sep 28 | 165 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±26 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 (0.4 days/decade). Historical frost dates are still reliable for planning.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Kiowa County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Kiowa 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 Kiowa County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Kiowa 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 Kiowa County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Kiowa County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Kiowa 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 Kiowa County CO" or "garden center Kiowa 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 Kiowa County CO" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Kiowa 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.
Show 6 more succession options
Sunlight & Day Length
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Longest Day
14.7 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.3 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
10.4 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 | 9.6 hr | 5.1 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.6 hr | 6.1 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 6.8 hr | Short day |
| April | 13 hr | 7.3 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.1 hr | 8.5 hr | Long day |
| June | 14.7 hr | 10.4 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.4 hr | 10.2 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.5 hr | 9 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 8.7 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11 hr | 7.3 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.9 hr | 5.5 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.3 hr | 4.9 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 | -2°F | 7°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | -2°F | 5°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 7°F | 10°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 22°F | 20°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| May | 35°F | 31°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Jun | 44°F | 39°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Jul | 55°F | 47°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Aug | 54°F | 49°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Sep | 45°F | 45°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Oct | 34°F | 35°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Nov | 19°F | 26°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Dec | 7°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 Kiowa 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 5 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Japanese beetles | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash bugs | Low | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Tomato hornworms | Low | Jul, Aug |
| Cabbage loopers | 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 Kiowa County
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with county-specific planting dates.
Spring Cover Crops (3 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | May 12 | Jul 31 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | May 4 | Aug 14 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Apr 2 | Aug 7 | ✓ 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 | May 11 | Sep 11 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Fall Cover Crops (6 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austrian winter peas | Jul 29 | Apr 8 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Daikon radish | Aug 16 | Apr 8 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 28 | Apr 15 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 13 | Apr 15 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 1 | Apr 8 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 19 | Apr 8 | — | 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: 14 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
6.7/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
High
Hilly terrain with 1,569 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
9,519 gal
Per 1,000 sq ft of roof area (at 80% collection efficiency)
Recommended Setup
8 rain barrels (55 gal each)
For a typical 500 sq ft garden. Serious collectors: consider a 2,000 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, Jul, Aug
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Feb, Jun, 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 19.1 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 9,519 gallons annually
- Check CO state regulations — rainwater harvesting has quantity limits
- In your dry climate, every drop counts — consider a larger cistern system
- Position collection tanks in shade to reduce evaporation and algae growth
Soil & Growing Conditions in Kiowa County
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH 6.3–8 · Well Drained drainage
Native soil is well-suited to most vegetables and herbs with regular compost additions.
Watering Needs
Drought stress: 9.5/10
Very high drought stress. Irrigation is critical for garden success. Focus on water-efficient techniques and drought-adapted crops.
Season Tips
163-day frost-free season
Start warm-season crops indoors and focus on short-season varieties. Cold frames extend your season by 3–4 weeks in fall.
Your Free Printable Garden Planner
Plan every bed, every planting, every harvest — in one place. This 24-page printable includes your zone's planting calendar, a month-by-month task list, a seed inventory tracker, a harvest log, and succession-planting charts. Built to print, write in, and actually use all season.
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 Kiowa County
106 vegetables that grow well in Zone 5b with planting dates for Kiowa County.
Show all 106 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 25 | May 6 | May 13 | Aug 5 – Sep 9 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 4 | May 6 | May 13 | Aug 12 – Sep 30 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jun 3 – Aug 5 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 13 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Apr 15 | — | Jun 10 – Jul 8 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Aug 19 – Oct 14 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Mar 4 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 15 – Aug 26 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | May 6 | — | Aug 5 – Sep 23 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jun 10 – Jul 15 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 1 – Aug 12 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jun 10 – Jul 15 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 29 – Sep 23 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 25 | May 6 | May 13 | Aug 12 – Sep 16 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 1 – Aug 26 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Mar 4 | May 6 | May 13 | Aug 5 – Sep 30 | 80–120 |
| Carrots | — | Apr 15 | — | Jun 17 – Jul 22 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jun 24 – Aug 26 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Aug 12 – Sep 16 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 22 – Sep 16 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 1 – Aug 12 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jun 24 – Aug 12 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 22 – Sep 2 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 1 – Aug 12 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jun 24 – Jul 22 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 4 | May 6 | May 13 | Aug 5 – Sep 9 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jun 24 – Aug 26 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | May 6 | — | Jul 8 – Sep 2 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | May 6 | — | Jul 8 – Aug 19 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | May 13 – Jun 3 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 25 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 1 – Jul 29 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Apr 15 | — | Sep 16 – Sep 30 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 25 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 8 – Sep 2 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Apr 15 | — | Jun 10 – Jul 8 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 25 | May 6 | May 13 | Aug 5 – Sep 9 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | May 6 | — | Jul 22 – Sep 2 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 18 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 22 – Sep 23 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jun 17 – Jul 22 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jun 24 – Jul 22 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 15 – Aug 26 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 4 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 15 – Aug 26 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | May 6 | — | Jul 1 – Aug 26 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 13 | Sep 16 – Oct 28 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 18 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 22 – Oct 28 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 25 | May 6 | May 13 | Aug 26 – Sep 30 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Mar 25 | May 6 | May 13 | Aug 12 – Sep 9 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jun 17 – Jul 15 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jun 24 – Aug 19 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | May 6 | — | Aug 5 – Sep 9 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jun 17 – Jul 22 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jun 3 – Jul 8 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 29 – Oct 14 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 22 – Sep 2 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jun 3 – Aug 12 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | May 6 | — | Jul 8 – Aug 19 | 60–90 |
| Mache | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jun 10 – Jul 15 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Mar 25 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 22 – Sep 9 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | May 6 – Jun 3 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Jun 17 – Aug 12 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jun 3 – Jul 1 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jun 3 – Aug 5 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jun 24 – Jul 29 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Mar 4 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 8 – Aug 5 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Mar 4 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 8 – Sep 2 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 29 – Sep 16 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jun 10 – Jul 8 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Apr 15 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 9 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 25 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 1 – Jul 29 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jun 24 – Aug 19 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 18 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 15 – Sep 23 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 4 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 8 – Sep 2 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 4 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 22 – Sep 30 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 25 | May 6 | May 13 | Aug 12 – Sep 30 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jun 10 – Jul 15 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 1 – Aug 5 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Apr 15 | — | May 13 – Jun 3 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 20 | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 15 – Aug 26 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Apr 15 | — | Jul 8 – Aug 12 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Apr 15 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 9 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 8 – Sep 2 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jun 24 – Jul 22 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 4 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 15 – Aug 19 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jul 29 – Sep 16 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 11 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 8 – Sep 2 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 4 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 8 – Sep 2 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jun 24 – Aug 19 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | May 6 | — | Jul 29 – Sep 23 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 25 | May 6 | May 13 | Aug 12 – Sep 9 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jun 3 – Aug 5 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 25 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 1 – Sep 2 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 25 | May 6 | May 13 | Aug 5 – Sep 30 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 13 | Sep 2 – Oct 28 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Mar 4 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 22 – Sep 9 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | May 6 | — | Jul 8 – Aug 19 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Mar 4 | May 6 | May 13 | Aug 12 – Sep 30 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jun 3 – Jul 8 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 4 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 15 – Sep 23 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 4 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 15 – Sep 23 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Apr 15 | — | May 27 – Jul 1 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 29 | Jun 10 – Jul 15 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 25 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 22 – Sep 9 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | May 6 | — | Jul 1 – Aug 26 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Mar 4 | May 6 | May 13 | Aug 12 – Sep 30 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Mar 4 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 8 – Aug 19 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 25 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 1 – Aug 26 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Kiowa County
27 fruits that grow well in Zone 5b with planting dates for Kiowa County.
Show all 27 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 20 | Aug 19 – Nov 4 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | May 20 | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 20 | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | May 20 | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 20 | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 20 | Jul 29 – Sep 2 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 20 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | May 20 | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | May 20 | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 20 | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 20 | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | May 20 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 20 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 20 | Jul 29 – Sep 23 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | May 20 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | May 20 | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 20 | Aug 12 – Sep 23 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | May 20 | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | May 20 | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | May 20 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 20 | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 20 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 20 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Quince | — | — | May 20 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 20 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 20 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 20 | Aug 19 – Nov 4 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Kiowa County
37 herbs that grow well in Zone 5b with planting dates for Kiowa County.
Show all 37 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Jul 22 – Oct 7 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 11 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 8 – Sep 9 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 6 | Aug 5 – Oct 21 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Jun 17 – Aug 5 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 6 | Jul 8 – Sep 9 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Jun 24 – Sep 2 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Jun 3 – Aug 5 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 6 | Jul 8 – Sep 16 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Jun 3 – Aug 5 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 6 | Jul 8 – Sep 16 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Aug 5 – Oct 7 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Jun 3 – Aug 5 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | May 6 | Sep 9 – Oct 21 | 120–180 |
| Epazote | Mar 11 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 1 – Aug 26 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Jun 24 – Sep 2 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | May 6 | Aug 5 – Oct 21 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | May 6 | Jul 8 – Sep 16 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | May 6 | Jul 22 – Sep 16 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | May 6 | Jul 15 – Sep 16 | 70–90 |
| Lavender | — | — | May 6 | Aug 5 – Oct 21 | 90–200 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | May 6 | Jul 8 – Aug 26 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | May 6 | Jul 15 – Sep 16 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | May 6 | Jul 15 – Sep 16 | 70–90 |
| Mint | — | — | May 6 | Jul 8 – Sep 16 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | May 6 | Jul 8 – Sep 16 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Jun 24 – Aug 26 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | May 6 | Jul 15 – Sep 16 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | May 6 | Jul 22 – Sep 16 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | May 6 | Jul 1 – Aug 26 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 25 | Apr 15 | Apr 22 | Jun 3 – Aug 5 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | May 6 | Jul 8 – Sep 16 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 11 | May 6 | May 13 | Jul 8 – Sep 9 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | May 6 | Jul 15 – Sep 16 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 6 | Sep 9 – Oct 21 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | May 6 | Aug 5 – Oct 21 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Kiowa County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Kiowa County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Kiowa County, CO?
Kiowa County is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5b. 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 Kiowa County, CO?
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Kiowa County falls around April 29. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between April 16 and May 13 — a 26-day window of variability. Use May 13 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Kiowa County, CO?
The median first fall frost in Kiowa County arrives around October 9. In cold years it can arrive as early as September 28; in mild years as late as October 24. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Kiowa County?
Kiowa County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 163 days. This is enough time for most warm-season crops including tomatoes, peppers, and squash with proper timing.
What is the soil like in Kiowa County for gardening?
Kiowa County has predominantly Loam soil with a pH range of 6.3–8 and Well Drained drainage. Most vegetables and herbs grow well with standard composting and seasonal soil amendment.
What is grown commercially in Kiowa County?
Kiowa County has commercial agriculture that includes Hay, Wheat, Cattle. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Kiowa County a good location for home gardening?
Kiowa County scores 40/100 (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.
Your Kiowa County Garden Planner — Free
A 24-page printable planner built for Kiowa 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.
The Gardener's Encyclopedia to Companion Planting
The pairings that make vegetables, herbs, and flowers grow better — and the ones that quietly wreck a bed.
- Proven pairings for 200+ vegetables, herbs, flowers, and fruits
- Full seed-starting + planting schedule with timing and spacing
- Bonus: square-foot gardening guide + printable seasonal planners
Seed Saving & Storage Guide
Most saved seeds go bad before next season. This shows exactly when to pick, how to dry, and where to store seeds from 200 plants so yours don't.
- 200 plants, step-by-step: life cycle, pollination type, isolation
- Exact temperature + humidity ranges that keep seeds viable
- Bonus: searchable Google Sheets tracker + custom GPT assistant
Composting Guide for Homesteaders
Turn kitchen scraps and yard waste into compost that actually feeds the garden — instead of a pile that smells, attracts pests, and never breaks down.
- 14 sections on composting methods, soil science, and troubleshooting
- The 7-step hot-compost system from start to finish
- Bonus tools: troubleshooting chart, safety guide, monitoring log