When to plant Microgreens in Larimer County, CO
Plant Microgreens in Larimer County from April 18 to May 9 in spring. Larimer County sits in USDA Zone 5b, with last frost around May 2 and first frost on October 6. A second sowing from July 28 to August 11 extends the harvest into fall.
When to Plant Microgreens in Larimer County, CO
July to-do list for Larimer County, Colorado
Your Larimer County, Colorado garden is entering a new phase. Here's what's on the schedule for July and why each task matters now.
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Start your fall crops: microgreens
Count back from your first frost (October 6) — these need to mature before the cold arrives.
Microgreens are young seedlings of vegetables and herbs harvested at the cotyledon or first true leaf stage. They pack concentrated flavors and nutrients in a tiny package.
Larimer County, Colorado is in USDA Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is May 2 and the first fall frost is October 6, giving you a growing season of approximately 157 days.
At an elevation of 7,108 feet, Larimer County receives approximately 23.4 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly loam soil. Summer highs average 84°F, so choose short-season varieties of Microgreens to ensure they mature before fall.
Larimer County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.4-8.2
Drainage
Well Drained
Microgreens Planting Risk Windows
Percentages indicate frost risk at transplant. The 70% safe window means there is a 30% chance of frost after transplant — suitable for cold-hardy crops or gardeners with frost protection. The 90% safe window is best for tender plants.
Soil Compatibility in Larimer County
How your county's soil matches Microgreens's growing requirements.
Soil pH
Your soil pH (6.4–8.2) is more alkaline than Microgreens prefers (6.0–7.0). Add sulfur or peat moss to lower pH.
Soil Texture
The loam soil in Larimer County is excellent for Microgreens — good drainage, moisture retention, and nutrient holding capacity.
Drainage
Drainage is adequate for Microgreens.
Organic Matter
Organic matter is moderate (2.3%). Annual compost additions will help Microgreens.
How to Plant Microgreens
Fall planting: Sow 10 weeks before your first frost date for a fall harvest.
Succession Planting Microgreens
Sow every 0.7 weeks. Last sowing by Sep 15 to harvest before frost.
For a dedicated fall crop, sow by Jul 28.
Microgreens Water Budget
Water stress score is 8/10 — consider drought-tolerant varieties and mulching
Monthly Watering Guide for Microgreens
Microgreens needs approximately 1 inches of water per week (4.3" per month). Here's how your county's rainfall compares month by month.
| Month | Microgreens Needs | Rainfall | You Supplement | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | — | 1.7" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 1.3" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | — | 2.1" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Apr | — | 2.2" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| May | 4.3" | 2.5" | 1.8" | 💧 Light watering |
| Jun | 4.3" | 1.9" | 2.4" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Jul | 4.3" | 2.3" | 2" | 💧 Light watering |
| Aug | 4.3" | 2.5" | 1.8" | 💧 Light watering |
| Sep | 4.3" | 2" | 2.3" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Oct | 4.3" | 1.9" | 2.4" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Nov | — | 1.7" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Dec | — | 1.3" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (May–Oct in Larimer County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Microgreens Heat Requirements (GDD)
What are Growing Degree Days (GDD)?
Growing Degree Days measure the total warmth your plants receive during the growing season. Think of it as a "heat bank" — every day above 50°F deposits warmth that helps your plants grow.
Each plant needs a certain amount of accumulated heat to mature. If your county provides more GDD than the plant needs, it's a great fit. If it's close, you may want to choose faster-maturing varieties or start seeds indoors to get a head start.
Microgreens Planting Timeline — Larimer County, CO
Microgreens Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 28 | Mar 28 – Apr 11 |
| Transplant Outdoors | May 2 | May 2 – May 16 |
| Direct Sow | April 18 | Apr 18 – May 9 |
| Harvest | May 9 | May 9 – Jun 6 |
| Fall Sowing | July 28 | Jul 28 – Aug 11 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 2" apart · Rows 6" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Start Indoors |
| April | Start Indoors Direct Sow |
| May | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow Harvest |
| June | Harvest |
| July | Fall Sowing |
| August | Fall Sowing |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Partial Shade (3-6 hours)
💧 Water
1"/week · 2-3 times/week
📅 Days to Maturity
7–21 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7 · Your soil: too_alkaline
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 5b
📆 Growing Season
157 days in Larimer County
Growing Tips for Microgreens in Larimer County
Direct sow Microgreens outdoors after May 02 in Larimer County when soil has warmed and frost danger has passed.
Your generous 157.0-day season in Larimer County allows multiple plantings of Microgreens. Sow every 3.0 days for continuous harvest.
Larimer County receives only 23" of rain annually. Microgreens needs consistent moisture — install drip irrigation or water deeply 2-3 times per week.
General growing tips
Sow seeds densely on shallow trays of moist growing medium. Cover until germination, then provide light. Harvest with scissors when 1-3 inches tall. Grow year-round indoors.
Microgreens in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Microgreens in Larimer County, CO?
Larimer County is in Zone 5b with an average last frost of May 2. Plan your Microgreens planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Larimer County, CO?
Larimer County, Colorado is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is May 2 and first fall frost is October 6.
When should I plant Microgreens in Larimer County, CO?
In Larimer County, CO, plant Microgreens after the last frost (around May 2) and before the first frost (around October 6). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Larimer County, CO for Microgreens?
Larimer County sits in USDA Zone 5b. Microgreens grows reliably in zones 1a through 13b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Microgreens grow in Larimer County's climate?
Yes — Microgreens grows well in Larimer County's temperate climate. Larimer County averages a 157-day frost-free season, with last frost around May 2 and first frost around October 6.
Your Larimer County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Larimer 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.