Bethune, CO — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
This month in Kit Carson County, Colorado
A quick June briefing for Kit Carson County, Colorado gardeners — what's urgent, what's next, and what can wait.
-
Start basil, cucumber, and kale indoors
Your window is short. These crops want several weeks of indoor growth before they go outside.
-
Basket week: carrots, lettuce, and radish
Check every 1–2 days. Many of these get tough or go to seed if you wait too long.
To set up a strong July, finish these tasks
- Starting indoors: peppers, pole beans, and tomatoes
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
- Fall sowing: carrots, kale, and lettuce
Bethune gardens in a dry climate (only 17" annual precipitation). Watering strategy matters more here than in most of the country — drip irrigation, deep mulching, and morning watering aren't optional, they're table stakes. The flip side: pest and disease pressure are far lower than in humid regions, and your soil temperatures climb fast in spring so you can plant heat-lovers earlier than the zone map suggests.
Soils trend Loam — the gold standard for vegetables. Add 2–3" of compost annually to maintain it and you'll outgrow most of your neighbors.
Bethune averages 25.8 drought weeks per year (US Drought Monitor, 2000–present, trend stable). Treat irrigation as a year-round system, not a summer add-on.
🌡️ USDA Zone
6a (-10°F to -5°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
May 9
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 8
📅 Growing Season
152 days
🌧️ Climate
Semi Arid 17.4" annual
💨 Wind
Breezy 11.9 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
25.8 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Bethune
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
Why this matters: Watering by the calendar wastes water. Watering by the soil moisture (or by a free rain gauge) cuts your water use 30%+ and produces healthier roots. Bethune's 17" annual baseline is the starting point.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 1.5 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.4 in | 5 days | — | None |
| Mar | 2.2 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Apr | 2.4 in | 7 days | 1.9 in | High |
| May | 2.8 in | 7 days | 1.5 in | Moderate |
| Jun | 1.4 in | 4 days | 2.9 in | High |
| Jul | 2.2 in | 5 days | 2.1 in | High |
| Aug | 2.7 in | 6 days | 1.6 in | High |
| Sep | 1.9 in | 5 days | 2.4 in | High |
| Oct | 1.9 in | 6 days | 2.4 in | High |
| Nov | 1.5 in | 5 days | — | None |
| Dec | 1.3 in | 7 days | — | None |
Annual total: 23.2 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.
Bethune Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.4-8
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 30 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 20 | Oct 23 | 156 days |
| Cautious | May 12 | Oct 13 | 154 days |
| Average year | May 9 | Oct 8 | 152 days |
| Optimistic | May 1 | Oct 4 | 156 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 25 | Sep 20 | 148 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±25 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Yes — growing seasons are getting longer here (about 1.5 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Kit Carson County has challenging growing conditions. Season extension and careful variety selection are essential.
Local Gardening Help in Kit Carson 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 Kit Carson County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Kit Carson 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 Kit Carson County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Kit Carson County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Kit Carson 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 Kit Carson County CO" or "garden center Kit Carson 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 Kit Carson County CO" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Kit Carson 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 in Bethune
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Why it matters: Onions are a great example of why day length matters. They "bulb up" only when daylight hits a specific number of hours — plant the wrong variety (short-day in the north, long-day in the south) and you'll get tiny bulbs no matter how well you grow them. Bethune's latitude determines which onion varieties succeed.
Longest Day
14.8 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.2 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
10.9 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 | 9.5 hr | 5.2 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.5 hr | 6.1 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 7.2 hr | Short day |
| April | 13 hr | 7.4 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.2 hr | 9.2 hr | Long day |
| June | 14.8 hr | 10.9 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.5 hr | 10.3 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.5 hr | 9 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 8.7 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.9 hr | 7.1 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.8 hr | 5.5 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.2 hr | 5 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Bethune
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
For new gardeners: Soil temperature predicts plant emergence better than calendar dates. Bethune's spring soil warm-up curve tells you which weeks are safe for direct-sow beans, cucumbers, squash, and corn.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from Aug through Aug.
Best Month to Compost
Jul
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
3 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 | 4°F | 13°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 6°F | 11°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 15°F | 17°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 27°F | 25°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| May | 41°F | 36°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Jun | 49°F | 45°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Jul | 60°F | 52°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Aug | 61°F | 55°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Sep | 53°F | 51°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Oct | 38°F | 42°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Nov | 24°F | 30°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Dec | 11°F | 21°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 Bethune
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Why it matters: In Bethune's climate, pest pressure shapes which crops are easy and which are heartbreak. Tomatoes are easy in dry mountain air, hard in humid coast — same plant, completely different gardening experience.
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 | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Tomato hornworms | Moderate | 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 Bethune
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
Why this matters: You don't need a farm to use cover crops. A 4x8 raised bed accepts cover crops just as well as a half-acre. Bethune's climate determines the calendar; the principle is universal.
Spring Cover Crops (3 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | May 13 | Jul 30 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | May 15 | Jul 30 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Apr 9 | Aug 6 | ✓ 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 28 | Sep 17 | — | 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 | Aug 13 | Apr 25 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Daikon radish | Aug 18 | Apr 18 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 1 | Apr 18 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 1 | Apr 18 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 9 | Apr 18 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 1 | Apr 18 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Bethune
Quick context: Why care about wind? Above about 10 mph, evaporation jumps and pollinators struggle to land on flowers. Bethune's 11.9 mph average means you can plant tall crops without much support, but it doesn't mean ignore wind — a 20+ mph storm still snaps unstaked tomatoes.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 15 mph Summer: 11 mph
Fall: 13 mph Winter: 14 mph
Prevailing wind: W. Windy area — plant a windbreak hedge on the W side of your garden.
Windbreak Benefit
7.4/10
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 2,463 ft of elevation range — cold air pools in low spots. Avoid planting frost-sensitive crops in valleys.
Rainwater Harvesting in Bethune
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Why this matters: The first inch of rain washes the roof clean — a first-flush diverter sends it to waste before the barrel fills. Worth the extra $20 for cleaner garden water. Bethune gets 17" annually, so you'll fill and flush many times per year.
Annual Collection
11,562 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
Mar, Apr, May, 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 23.2 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 11,562 gallons annually
- Check CO state regulations — rainwater harvesting has quantity limits
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Feb, Jun, Dec)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Bethune
107 vegetables matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Bethune.
Show all 107 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Apr 4 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Aug 15 – Sep 19 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 14 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Aug 22 – Oct 10 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 30 | Jun 13 – Aug 15 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 23 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 30 | Jun 20 – Jul 18 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 30 | Aug 29 – Oct 24 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Mar 14 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 5 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | May 16 | — | — | Aug 15 – Oct 3 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 30 | Jun 20 – Jul 25 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 30 | Jul 11 – Aug 22 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 30 | Jun 20 – Jul 25 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 30 | Aug 8 – Oct 3 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Apr 4 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Aug 22 – Sep 26 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 30 | Jul 11 – Sep 5 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Mar 14 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Aug 15 – Oct 10 | 80–120 |
| Carrots | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 30 | Jun 27 – Aug 1 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 30 | Jul 4 – Sep 5 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 30 | Aug 22 – Sep 26 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 30 | Aug 1 – Sep 26 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 30 | Jul 11 – Aug 22 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 30 | Jul 4 – Aug 22 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 30 | Aug 1 – Sep 12 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 30 | Jul 11 – Aug 22 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 30 | Jul 4 – Aug 1 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 14 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Aug 15 – Sep 19 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 30 | Jul 4 – Sep 5 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | May 16 | — | — | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | May 16 | — | — | Jul 18 – Aug 29 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 30 | May 23 – Jun 13 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Apr 4 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Jul 11 – Aug 8 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 30 | Sep 26 – Nov 7 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Apr 4 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 30 | Jun 20 – Jul 18 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Apr 4 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Aug 15 – Sep 19 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | May 16 | — | — | Aug 1 – Sep 12 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 28 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 3 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 30 | Jun 27 – Aug 1 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 30 | Jul 4 – Aug 1 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 30 | Jul 25 – Sep 5 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 14 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 5 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Aug 27 | Nov 26 – Mar 11 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | May 16 | — | — | Jul 11 – Sep 5 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 23 | — | Sep 26 – Dec 5 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 28 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Aug 1 – Nov 7 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Apr 4 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Sep 5 – Oct 10 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Apr 4 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Aug 22 – Sep 19 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 30 | Jun 27 – Jul 25 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 30 | Jul 4 – Aug 29 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | May 16 | — | — | Aug 15 – Sep 19 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 30 | Jun 27 – Aug 1 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 30 | Jun 13 – Jul 18 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 30 | Aug 8 – Oct 24 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 30 | Aug 1 – Sep 12 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 30 | Jun 13 – Aug 22 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | May 16 | — | — | Jul 18 – Aug 29 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Mar 14 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Sep 5 – Nov 7 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Mar 14 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Aug 22 – Nov 7 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 30 | Jun 20 – Jul 25 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Apr 4 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 19 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 30 | May 16 – Jun 13 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 2 | Jul 30 | Jun 27 – Aug 22 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 30 | Jun 13 – Jul 11 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 30 | Jun 13 – Aug 15 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 30 | Jul 4 – Aug 8 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Mar 14 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Jul 18 – Aug 15 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Mar 14 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 30 | Aug 8 – Sep 26 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 30 | Jun 20 – Jul 18 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 30 | Aug 8 – Sep 19 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Apr 4 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Jul 11 – Aug 8 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 30 | Jul 4 – Aug 29 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 28 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 3 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 14 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 14 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 10 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Apr 4 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Aug 22 – Oct 10 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 30 | Jun 20 – Jul 25 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 30 | Jul 11 – Aug 15 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 30 | May 23 – Jun 13 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 30 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 30 | Jul 25 – Sep 5 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 30 | Jul 18 – Aug 22 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 30 | Aug 8 – Sep 19 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 30 | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 30 | Jul 4 – Aug 1 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 14 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Jul 25 – Aug 29 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 30 | Aug 8 – Sep 26 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 21 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 14 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 12 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 30 | Jul 4 – Aug 29 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | May 16 | — | — | Aug 8 – Oct 3 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Apr 4 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Aug 22 – Sep 19 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 30 | Jun 13 – Aug 15 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Apr 4 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 12 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Apr 4 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Aug 15 – Oct 10 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 23 | — | Sep 12 – Nov 7 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | May 16 | — | — | Jul 18 – Aug 29 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Mar 14 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Aug 22 – Oct 10 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 30 | Jun 13 – Jul 18 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 14 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 3 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 14 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 3 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Apr 25 | — | Jul 30 | Jun 6 – Jul 11 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 9 | Jul 30 | Jun 20 – Jul 25 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Apr 4 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 19 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | May 16 | — | — | Jul 11 – Sep 5 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Mar 14 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Aug 22 – Oct 10 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Mar 14 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Jul 18 – Aug 29 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Apr 4 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 5 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Bethune
27 fruits matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Bethune.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 30 | — | Aug 29 – Dec 12 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | May 30 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 30 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | May 30 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 30 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 30 | — | Aug 8 – Sep 12 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 30 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | May 30 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | May 30 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 30 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 30 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | May 30 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 30 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 30 | — | Aug 8 – Oct 3 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | May 30 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | May 30 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 30 | — | Aug 22 – Oct 3 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | May 30 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | May 30 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | May 30 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 30 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 30 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 30 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Quince | — | — | May 30 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 30 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 30 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 30 | — | Aug 29 – Dec 12 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Bethune
35 herbs matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Bethune.
Show all 35 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 2 | Jul 30 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 2 | Jul 30 | Aug 1 – Oct 17 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 21 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 19 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 16 | — | Aug 15 – Oct 31 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 2 | Jul 30 | Jun 27 – Aug 15 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 2 | Jul 30 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 16 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 19 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 2 | Jul 30 | Jul 4 – Sep 12 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 2 | Jul 30 | Jun 13 – Aug 15 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 16 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 26 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 2 | Jul 30 | Jun 13 – Aug 15 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 16 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 26 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 2 | Jul 30 | Aug 15 – Oct 17 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 2 | Jul 30 | Jun 13 – Aug 15 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Mar 21 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 5 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 2 | Jul 30 | Jul 4 – Sep 12 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | May 16 | — | Aug 15 – Oct 31 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | May 16 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 26 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | May 16 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 26 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | May 16 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 26 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | May 16 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 5 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | May 16 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 26 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | May 16 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 26 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | May 16 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 26 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | May 16 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 26 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | May 16 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 26 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 2 | Jul 30 | Jul 4 – Sep 5 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | May 16 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 26 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | May 16 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 26 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | May 16 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 5 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Apr 4 | Apr 25 | May 2 | Jul 30 | Jun 13 – Aug 15 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | May 16 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 26 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 21 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 19 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | May 16 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 26 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 16 | — | Sep 19 – Nov 28 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Bethune
53 flowers matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Bethune.
Show all 53 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Mar 21 | May 9 | May 9 | — | Jul 4 – Oct 10 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Aug 27 | Sep 24 – Oct 22 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | Apr 11 | — | May 9 | — | Jun 13 – Jul 11 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Mar 7 | — | May 16 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 3 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | May 9 | Aug 27 | Jul 11 – Sep 26 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Feb 28 | — | May 16 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 24 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Mar 7 | May 9 | May 16 | — | Aug 1 – Nov 14 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Mar 7 | — | May 16 | — | Jul 11 – Aug 15 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Mar 28 | Apr 11 | May 9 | — | Jun 27 – Sep 26 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | Apr 11 | — | — | Jun 20 – Aug 1 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Apr 4 | May 16 | May 16 | — | Jul 18 – Oct 31 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Mar 7 | May 23 | May 23 | — | Jul 18 – Aug 22 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Mar 7 | May 16 | May 16 | — | Jul 25 – Nov 14 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Apr 11 | May 9 | May 9 | — | Jul 18 – Oct 24 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Aug 27 | Jul 16 – Aug 6 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Aug 27 | Jul 23 – Aug 13 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Apr 11 | May 16 | May 16 | — | Aug 1 – Nov 14 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Mar 7 | — | May 16 | — | Aug 1 – Nov 14 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Mar 14 | Apr 11 | Apr 25 | — | Jun 13 – Sep 12 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Mar 7 | May 23 | May 23 | — | Aug 15 – Nov 21 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Mar 7 | May 16 | May 16 | — | Jul 11 – Aug 15 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Mar 21 | May 16 | May 16 | — | Jul 25 – Nov 28 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Feb 28 | — | May 16 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 24 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | May 9 | May 9 | — | Jul 25 – Nov 7 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Feb 28 | — | May 16 | — | Aug 1 – Nov 14 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Aug 27 | Aug 13 – Sep 3 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Feb 28 | — | May 16 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 31 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Mar 14 | — | May 16 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 31 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | May 16 | — | Jul 11 – Aug 8 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Apr 11 | — | — | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Feb 28 | — | May 23 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 26 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | May 16 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 31 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Mar 7 | — | Apr 25 | — | Jun 20 – Sep 12 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Mar 7 | May 16 | May 16 | — | Jul 11 – Aug 15 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Mar 28 | May 16 | May 16 | — | Jul 11 – Oct 10 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Apr 11 | May 16 | May 16 | — | Jul 11 – Oct 31 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Feb 28 | — | May 9 | Aug 13 | Jul 4 – Sep 5 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | May 16 | — | Jul 18 – Aug 22 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Mar 14 | — | May 16 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 31 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Mar 7 | May 16 | May 16 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 17 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Apr 4 | May 16 | May 16 | — | Jul 4 – Oct 17 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | Mar 28 | — | May 9 | — | Jun 20 – Jul 18 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Feb 28 | — | May 16 | — | Jul 25 – Nov 14 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Mar 7 | — | May 16 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 31 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Mar 7 | — | May 16 | — | Sep 5 – Nov 21 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Feb 28 | Apr 18 | May 9 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 26 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Apr 18 | May 16 | May 16 | — | Aug 8 – Oct 31 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Mar 21 | Apr 18 | May 9 | — | Jun 20 – Aug 29 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | Mar 28 | Apr 4 | May 9 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 3 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Aug 27 | Aug 6 – Sep 3 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Feb 28 | — | May 16 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 31 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Mar 7 | May 9 | May 16 | — | Jul 25 – Nov 14 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Apr 11 | May 16 | May 16 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 31 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Bethune
ZIP Codes in Bethune
Click any ZIP to see its specific frost, soil, and climate measurements (some ZIPs differ noticeably from the town aggregate):
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Kit Carson County.
Your Kit Carson County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Kit Carson County (Zone 6a). 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