Cimarron, CO — Planting Guide for July
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
July in Montrose County, Colorado — your action list
We've pulled the most time-sensitive tasks for Montrose County, Colorado this July and put them front and centre. Tackle them in order.
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Move alpine strawberries, aronia, and blackberries from tray to bed
Bring a watering can to the bed. Each transplant gets a drink the moment it's in the ground, not ten minutes later.
-
Time to start cucumber, kale, and lettuce inside
Bottom-water once the first true leaves appear — it keeps stems dry and knocks back damping-off.
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Collect lettuce, radish, and anemones at their peak
Check every 1–2 days. Many of these get tough or go to seed if you wait too long.
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Plant your fall garden: carrots, kale, and lettuce
Mid-season soil is hot. Sow a bit deeper than the packet suggests to find cooler, damper ground.
Before August arrives, get these ready
- Starting indoors: basil, peppers, and pole beans
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
- Fall sowing: alliums, bachelor's button, and crocus
Cimarron has a classic four-season growing climate (Zone 6b). The last spring frost typically lands around June 13 and the first fall frost arrives around September 12 — a 91-day frost-free season that's long enough for tomatoes, peppers, melons, and a full succession of cool-weather crops on either side. The trick is timing: start warm-season seedlings indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost, harden them off, and plant out the week after your local frost date is statistically safe.
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.
Cimarron averages 31.4 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
6b (-5°F to 0°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
June 13
🍂 Avg. First Frost
September 12
📅 Growing Season
91 days
🌧️ Climate
Unknown 0.0" annual
💨 Wind
Moderate 7.0 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
31.4 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Cimarron
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
For new gardeners: The 1-inch-per-week rule applies to most vegetable crops. Cimarron averages 0" a year — divide by 52 and compare to that 1" target. Some months are above, some below; that's where the calendar earns its keep.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 1.4 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Mar | 1.4 in | 7 days | 2.9 in | High |
| Apr | 2.2 in | 7 days | 2.1 in | High |
| May | 2.3 in | 8 days | 2 in | High |
| Jun | 1.2 in | 5 days | 3.1 in | Critical |
| Jul | 1.8 in | 6 days | 2.5 in | High |
| Aug | 1.7 in | 7 days | 2.6 in | High |
| Sep | 1.5 in | 6 days | 2.8 in | High |
| Oct | 1.6 in | 6 days | 2.7 in | High |
| Nov | 1.3 in | 5 days | — | None |
| Dec | 1.1 in | 6 days | — | None |
Annual total: 18.5 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.
Cimarron Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.7-7.9
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) | Jun 26 | Oct 13 | 109 days |
| Cautious | Jun 21 | Sep 25 | 96 days |
| Average year | Jun 13 | Sep 12 | 91 days |
| Optimistic | May 14 | Sep 7 | 116 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 24 | Aug 27 | 125 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±63 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 4.3 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Montrose County has challenging growing conditions. Season extension and careful variety selection are essential.
Local Gardening Help in Montrose 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 Montrose County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Montrose 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 Montrose County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Montrose County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Montrose 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 Montrose County CO" or "garden center Montrose 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 Montrose County CO" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Montrose 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.
Sunlight & Day Length in Cimarron
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
What this means for you: Plants use day length as their seasonal clock. Some crops flower when days lengthen (most flowers), some when days shorten (chrysanthemums, soybeans). Cimarron's curve is the timing layer beneath everything you grow.
Longest Day
14.7 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.3 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
10.5 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 | 5.5 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.6 hr | 6.1 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 6.8 hr | Short day |
| April | 13 hr | 7.6 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.1 hr | 8.3 hr | Long day |
| June | 14.7 hr | 10.3 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.4 hr | 10.5 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.5 hr | 9 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 8.7 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11 hr | 7.4 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.9 hr | 5.5 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.3 hr | 5.2 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Cimarron
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Why this matters: Mulched soil swings less. The mulch insulates against both winter cold and summer heat. In Cimarron, an aggressive mulch program shifts your effective soil temperature curve toward optimal for most crops.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from Jul through Aug.
Best Month to Compost
Jun
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
4 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 | 14°F | 19°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 12°F | 19°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 19°F | 23°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 34°F | 31°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| May | 45°F | 42°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Jun | 53°F | 50°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jul | 64°F | 58°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Aug | 61°F | 60°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Sep | 56°F | 56°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Oct | 44°F | 47°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Nov | 30°F | 35°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Dec | 18°F | 26°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 Cimarron
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Why it matters: The most successful gardeners in high-pressure regions don't spray more — they design around the problem. Crop rotation, companion planting, and resistant varieties beat reactive spraying.
Insect Pest Pressure
Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.
Disease Risk
Low disease risk — dry conditions reduce fungal problems.
Seasonal Risk
View 6 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Moderate | Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Japanese beetles | High | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash vine borers | Moderate | Jun, Jul |
| Tomato hornworms | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Cucumber beetles | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | Low | Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
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 Cimarron
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
Quick context: Cover crops fix nitrogen by hosting bacteria that pull it from the air. A vigorous legume cover crop can deliver 50-150 lbs/acre of nitrogen — meaningful for the next vegetable season.
Spring Cover Crops (3 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Jun 19 | Jul 4 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Jun 16 | Jul 18 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | May 19 | Jul 11 | ✓ 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 | Jul 4 | Aug 22 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Fall Cover Crops (7 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austrian winter peas | Jul 7 | May 23 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Jul 7 | May 23 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Aug 4 | May 23 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 5 | May 30 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Aug 4 | May 23 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jun 19 | May 23 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jun 17 | May 23 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Cimarron
Quick context: Pollinators avoid windy days. Cimarron's 7.0 mph average wind isn't enough to stop bees and butterflies — but plant fruiting crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) in protected microclimates and you'll see noticeably better fruit set.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 16 mph Summer: 11 mph
Fall: 11 mph Winter: 15 mph
Prevailing wind: W. Windy area — plant a windbreak hedge on the W side of your garden.
Windbreak Benefit
6.5/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
High
Hilly terrain with 1,273 ft of elevation range — cold air pools in low spots. Avoid planting frost-sensitive crops in valleys.
Rainwater Harvesting in Cimarron
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
The practical takeaway: A gravity-fed rain barrel ($75) is the easy entry. A larger cistern ($500-1500) covers a whole growing season. Cimarron's 0" annual rainfall determines whether the larger system is overkill or essential.
Annual Collection
9,220 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 18.5 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 9,220 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
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Cimarron
107 vegetables matched to Zone 6b with planting dates calibrated for Cimarron.
Show all 107 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | May 9 | Jun 20 | Jun 27 | — | Sep 19 – Oct 24 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Apr 18 | Jun 20 | Jun 27 | — | Sep 26 – Nov 14 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | May 9 | May 30 | Jun 13 | Jul 4 | Jul 18 – Sep 19 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Jun 27 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | May 30 | — | Jul 4 | Jul 25 – Aug 22 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | May 9 | May 30 | Jun 13 | Jul 4 | Oct 3 – Nov 28 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Apr 18 | Jun 20 | Jun 27 | — | Aug 29 – Oct 10 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Jun 20 | — | — | Sep 19 – Nov 7 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | May 9 | May 30 | Jun 13 | Jul 4 | Jul 25 – Aug 29 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | May 9 | May 30 | Jun 13 | Jul 4 | Aug 15 – Sep 26 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | May 9 | May 30 | Jun 13 | Jul 4 | Jul 25 – Aug 29 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | May 9 | May 30 | Jun 13 | Jul 4 | Sep 12 – Nov 7 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | May 9 | Jun 20 | Jun 27 | — | Sep 26 – Oct 31 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | May 9 | May 30 | Jun 13 | Jul 4 | Aug 15 – Oct 10 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Apr 18 | Jun 20 | Jun 27 | — | Sep 19 – Nov 14 | 80–120 |
| Carrots | — | May 30 | — | Jul 4 | Aug 1 – Sep 5 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | May 9 | May 30 | Jun 13 | Jul 4 | Aug 8 – Oct 10 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | May 9 | May 30 | Jun 13 | Jul 4 | Sep 26 – Oct 31 | 100–120 |
| Celery | May 9 | May 30 | Jun 13 | Jul 4 | Sep 5 – Oct 31 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | May 9 | May 30 | Jun 13 | Jul 4 | Aug 15 – Sep 26 | 60–90 |
| Chard | May 9 | May 30 | Jun 13 | Jul 4 | Aug 8 – Sep 26 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | May 9 | May 30 | Jun 13 | Jul 4 | Sep 5 – Oct 17 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | May 9 | May 30 | Jun 13 | Jul 4 | Aug 15 – Sep 26 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | May 9 | May 30 | Jun 13 | Jul 4 | Aug 8 – Sep 5 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Apr 18 | Jun 20 | Jun 27 | — | Sep 19 – Oct 24 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | May 9 | May 30 | Jun 13 | Jul 4 | Aug 8 – Oct 10 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Jun 20 | — | — | Aug 22 – Oct 17 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Jun 20 | — | — | Aug 22 – Oct 3 | 60–90 |
| Cress | May 9 | May 30 | Jun 13 | Jul 4 | Jun 27 – Jul 18 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | May 9 | Jun 20 | Jun 27 | — | Aug 15 – Sep 12 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | May 30 | — | Jul 4 | Oct 31 – Dec 12 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | May 9 | Jun 20 | Jun 27 | — | Aug 22 – Oct 17 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | May 30 | — | Jul 4 | Jul 25 – Aug 22 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | May 9 | Jun 20 | Jun 27 | — | Sep 19 – Oct 24 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Jun 20 | — | — | Sep 5 – Oct 17 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Apr 4 | Jun 20 | Jun 27 | — | Sep 5 – Nov 7 | 65–85 |
| Endive | May 9 | May 30 | Jun 13 | Jul 4 | Aug 1 – Sep 5 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | May 9 | May 30 | Jun 13 | Jul 4 | Aug 8 – Sep 5 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | May 9 | May 30 | Jun 13 | Jul 4 | Aug 29 – Oct 10 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Apr 18 | Jun 20 | Jun 27 | — | Aug 29 – Oct 10 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Aug 1 | Oct 31 – Feb 13 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | Jun 20 | — | — | Aug 15 – Oct 10 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Jun 27 | — | Oct 31 – Jan 9 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Apr 4 | Jun 20 | Jun 27 | — | Sep 5 – Dec 12 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | May 9 | Jun 20 | Jun 27 | — | Oct 10 – Nov 14 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | May 9 | Jun 20 | Jun 27 | — | Sep 26 – Oct 24 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | May 9 | May 30 | Jun 13 | Jul 4 | Aug 1 – Aug 29 | 45–60 |
| Kale | May 9 | May 30 | Jun 13 | Jul 4 | Aug 8 – Oct 3 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Jun 20 | — | — | Sep 19 – Oct 24 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | May 9 | May 30 | Jun 13 | Jul 4 | Aug 1 – Sep 5 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | May 9 | May 30 | Jun 13 | Jul 4 | Jul 18 – Aug 22 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | May 9 | May 30 | Jun 13 | Jul 4 | Sep 12 – Nov 28 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | May 9 | May 30 | Jun 13 | Jul 4 | Sep 5 – Oct 17 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | May 9 | May 30 | Jun 13 | Jul 4 | Jul 18 – Sep 26 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Jun 20 | — | — | Aug 22 – Oct 3 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Apr 18 | Jun 20 | Jun 27 | — | Oct 10 – Dec 12 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Apr 18 | Jun 20 | Jun 27 | — | Sep 26 – Dec 12 | 90–150 |
| Mache | May 9 | May 30 | Jun 13 | Jul 4 | Jul 25 – Aug 29 | 40–60 |
| Melon | May 9 | Jun 20 | Jun 27 | — | Sep 5 – Oct 24 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | May 9 | May 30 | Jun 13 | Jul 4 | Jun 20 – Jul 18 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | May 9 | May 30 | Jun 6 | Jul 4 | Aug 1 – Sep 26 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | May 9 | May 30 | Jun 13 | Jul 4 | Jul 18 – Aug 15 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | May 9 | May 30 | Jun 13 | Jul 4 | Jul 18 – Sep 19 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | May 9 | May 30 | Jun 13 | Jul 4 | Aug 8 – Sep 12 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Apr 18 | Jun 20 | Jun 27 | — | Aug 22 – Sep 19 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Apr 18 | Jun 20 | Jun 27 | — | Aug 22 – Oct 17 | 50–65 |
| Onion | May 9 | May 30 | Jun 13 | Jul 4 | Sep 12 – Oct 31 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | May 9 | May 30 | Jun 13 | Jul 4 | Jul 25 – Aug 22 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | May 30 | — | Jul 4 | Sep 12 – Oct 24 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | May 9 | Jun 20 | Jun 27 | — | Aug 15 – Sep 12 | 45–60 |
| Peas | May 9 | May 30 | Jun 13 | Jul 4 | Aug 8 – Oct 3 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Apr 4 | Jun 20 | Jun 27 | — | Aug 29 – Nov 7 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Apr 18 | Jun 20 | Jun 27 | — | Aug 22 – Oct 17 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Apr 18 | Jun 20 | Jun 27 | — | Sep 5 – Nov 14 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | May 9 | Jun 20 | Jun 27 | — | Sep 26 – Nov 14 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | May 9 | May 30 | Jun 13 | Jul 4 | Jul 25 – Aug 29 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | May 9 | May 30 | Jun 13 | Jul 4 | Aug 15 – Sep 19 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | May 30 | — | Jul 4 | Jun 27 – Jul 18 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Jul 4 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | May 9 | May 30 | Jun 13 | Jul 4 | Aug 29 – Oct 10 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | May 30 | — | Jul 4 | Aug 22 – Sep 26 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | May 30 | — | Jul 4 | Sep 12 – Oct 24 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | May 9 | May 30 | Jun 13 | Jul 4 | Aug 22 – Oct 17 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | May 9 | May 30 | Jun 13 | Jul 4 | Aug 8 – Sep 5 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Apr 18 | Jun 20 | Jun 27 | — | Aug 29 – Oct 3 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | May 9 | May 30 | Jun 13 | Jul 4 | Sep 12 – Oct 31 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Apr 25 | Jun 20 | Jun 27 | — | Aug 22 – Oct 17 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Apr 18 | Jun 20 | Jun 27 | — | Aug 22 – Oct 17 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | May 9 | May 30 | Jun 13 | Jul 4 | Aug 8 – Oct 3 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Jun 20 | — | — | Sep 12 – Nov 7 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | May 9 | Jun 20 | Jun 27 | — | Sep 26 – Oct 24 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | May 9 | May 30 | Jun 13 | Jul 4 | Jul 18 – Sep 19 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | May 9 | Jun 20 | Jun 27 | — | Aug 15 – Oct 17 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | May 9 | Jun 20 | Jun 27 | — | Sep 19 – Nov 14 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Jun 27 | — | Oct 17 – Dec 12 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Jun 20 | — | — | Aug 22 – Oct 3 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Apr 18 | Jun 20 | Jun 27 | — | Sep 26 – Nov 14 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | May 9 | May 30 | Jun 13 | Jul 4 | Jul 18 – Aug 22 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Apr 18 | Jun 20 | Jun 27 | — | Aug 29 – Nov 7 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Apr 18 | Jun 20 | Jun 27 | — | Aug 29 – Nov 7 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | May 30 | — | Jul 4 | Jul 11 – Aug 15 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | May 9 | May 30 | Jun 13 | Jul 4 | Jul 25 – Aug 29 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | May 9 | Jun 20 | Jun 27 | — | Sep 5 – Oct 24 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Jun 20 | — | — | Aug 15 – Oct 10 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Apr 18 | Jun 20 | Jun 27 | — | Sep 26 – Nov 14 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Apr 18 | Jun 20 | Jun 27 | — | Aug 22 – Oct 3 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | May 9 | Jun 20 | Jun 27 | — | Aug 15 – Oct 10 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Cimarron
27 fruits matched to Zone 6b with planting dates calibrated for Cimarron.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Jul 4 | — | Oct 3 – Jan 16 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Jul 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Jul 4 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Jul 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Jul 4 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Jul 4 | — | Sep 12 – Oct 17 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Jul 4 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | Jul 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | Jul 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Jul 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Jul 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Jul 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Jul 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Jul 4 | — | Sep 12 – Nov 7 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Jul 4 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | Jul 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Jul 4 | — | Sep 26 – Nov 7 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Jul 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | Jul 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | Jul 4 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Jul 4 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Jul 4 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Jul 4 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Quince | — | — | Jul 4 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Jul 4 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Jul 4 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Jul 4 | — | Oct 3 – Jan 16 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Cimarron
35 herbs matched to Zone 6b with planting dates calibrated for Cimarron.
Show all 35 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | May 9 | May 30 | Jun 6 | Jul 4 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | May 9 | May 30 | Jun 6 | Jul 4 | Sep 5 – Nov 21 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Apr 25 | Jun 20 | Jun 27 | — | Aug 22 – Oct 24 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Jun 20 | — | Sep 19 – Dec 5 | 90–120 |
| Borage | May 9 | May 30 | Jun 6 | Jul 4 | Aug 1 – Sep 19 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | May 9 | May 30 | Jun 6 | Jul 4 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Jun 20 | — | Aug 22 – Oct 24 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | May 9 | May 30 | Jun 6 | Jul 4 | Aug 8 – Oct 17 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | May 9 | May 30 | Jun 6 | Jul 4 | Jul 18 – Sep 19 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Jun 20 | — | Aug 22 – Oct 31 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | May 9 | May 30 | Jun 6 | Jul 4 | Jul 18 – Sep 19 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Jun 20 | — | Aug 22 – Oct 31 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | May 9 | May 30 | Jun 6 | Jul 4 | Sep 19 – Nov 21 | 100–120 |
| Dill | May 9 | May 30 | Jun 6 | Jul 4 | Jul 18 – Sep 19 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Apr 25 | Jun 20 | Jun 27 | — | Aug 15 – Oct 10 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | May 9 | May 30 | Jun 6 | Jul 4 | Aug 8 – Oct 17 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Jun 20 | — | Sep 19 – Dec 5 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Jun 20 | — | Aug 22 – Oct 31 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Jun 20 | — | Sep 5 – Oct 31 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Jun 20 | — | Aug 29 – Oct 31 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Jun 20 | — | Aug 22 – Oct 10 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Jun 20 | — | Aug 29 – Oct 31 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | Jun 20 | — | Aug 29 – Oct 31 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Jun 20 | — | Aug 22 – Oct 31 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Jun 20 | — | Aug 22 – Oct 31 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Jun 20 | — | Aug 22 – Oct 31 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | May 9 | May 30 | Jun 6 | Jul 4 | Aug 8 – Oct 10 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | Jun 20 | — | Aug 29 – Oct 31 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Jun 20 | — | Sep 5 – Oct 31 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Jun 20 | — | Aug 15 – Oct 10 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | May 9 | May 30 | Jun 6 | Jul 4 | Jul 18 – Sep 19 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Jun 20 | — | Aug 22 – Oct 31 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Apr 25 | Jun 20 | Jun 27 | — | Aug 22 – Oct 24 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Jun 20 | — | Aug 29 – Oct 31 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Jun 20 | — | Oct 24 – Jan 2 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Cimarron
53 flowers matched to Zone 6b with planting dates calibrated for Cimarron.
Show all 53 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Apr 25 | Jun 13 | Jun 13 | — | Aug 8 – Nov 21 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Aug 1 | Aug 29 – Sep 26 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | May 16 | — | Jun 13 | — | Jul 11 – Aug 8 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Apr 11 | — | Jun 20 | — | Aug 29 – Nov 7 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | May 2 | May 16 | Jun 13 | Aug 1 | Aug 15 – Nov 7 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Apr 4 | — | Jun 20 | — | Aug 29 – Dec 5 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Apr 11 | Jun 13 | Jun 20 | — | Sep 5 – Dec 26 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Apr 11 | — | Jun 20 | — | Aug 15 – Sep 19 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | May 2 | May 16 | Jun 13 | — | Aug 1 – Nov 7 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | May 16 | — | — | Jul 25 – Sep 19 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | May 9 | Jun 20 | Jun 20 | — | Aug 22 – Dec 12 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Apr 11 | Jun 20 | Jun 20 | — | Aug 15 – Sep 19 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Apr 11 | Jun 13 | Jun 20 | — | Aug 29 – Dec 26 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | May 16 | Jun 13 | Jun 13 | — | Aug 22 – Dec 5 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Aug 1 | Jun 20 – Jul 11 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Aug 1 | Jun 27 – Jul 18 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | May 16 | Jun 20 | Jun 20 | — | Sep 5 – Dec 26 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Apr 11 | — | Jun 20 | — | Sep 5 – Dec 26 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Apr 18 | May 16 | May 23 | — | Jul 11 – Oct 10 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Apr 11 | Jun 20 | Jun 20 | — | Sep 5 – Dec 26 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Apr 11 | Jun 20 | Jun 20 | — | Aug 15 – Sep 19 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Apr 25 | Jun 20 | Jun 20 | — | Aug 29 – Jan 2 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Apr 4 | — | Jun 20 | — | Aug 29 – Dec 5 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Jun 13 | Jun 13 | — | Aug 29 – Dec 19 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Apr 4 | — | Jun 20 | — | Sep 5 – Dec 26 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Aug 1 | Jul 18 – Aug 8 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Apr 4 | — | Jun 20 | — | Aug 29 – Dec 12 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Apr 18 | — | Jun 20 | — | Aug 29 – Dec 12 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Jun 20 | — | Aug 15 – Sep 12 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | May 16 | — | — | Jul 25 – Sep 19 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Apr 4 | — | Jun 27 | — | Sep 5 – Oct 31 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Jun 20 | — | Aug 29 – Dec 5 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Apr 11 | — | May 30 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 17 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Apr 11 | Jun 20 | Jun 20 | — | Aug 15 – Sep 19 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | May 2 | Jun 13 | Jun 13 | — | Aug 8 – Nov 14 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | May 16 | Jun 13 | Jun 13 | — | Aug 8 – Dec 5 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Apr 4 | — | Jun 13 | Jul 18 | Aug 8 – Oct 17 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | Jun 20 | — | Aug 22 – Sep 26 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Apr 18 | — | Jun 20 | — | Aug 29 – Dec 12 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Apr 11 | Jun 20 | Jun 20 | — | Aug 29 – Nov 21 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | May 9 | Jun 20 | Jun 20 | — | Aug 8 – Nov 28 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | May 2 | — | Jun 13 | — | Jul 18 – Aug 15 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Apr 4 | — | Jun 20 | — | Aug 29 – Dec 26 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Apr 11 | — | Jun 13 | — | Aug 22 – Dec 5 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Apr 11 | — | Jun 20 | — | Oct 10 – Jan 2 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Apr 4 | May 23 | Jun 13 | — | Aug 22 – Nov 7 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | May 23 | Jun 13 | Jun 13 | — | Sep 5 – Dec 5 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | May 2 | May 23 | Jun 13 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 10 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | May 2 | May 9 | Jun 13 | — | Aug 29 – Nov 7 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Aug 8 | Jul 18 – Aug 15 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Apr 4 | — | Jun 20 | — | Aug 29 – Dec 12 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Apr 11 | Jun 13 | Jun 20 | — | Aug 29 – Dec 26 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | May 16 | Jun 13 | Jun 13 | — | Aug 22 – Nov 28 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Cimarron
ZIP Codes in Cimarron
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 Montrose County.
Your Montrose County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Montrose County (Zone 6b). 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