When to plant Thyme in Weld County, CO
Plant Thyme in Weld County, between May 9 and May 23 — the only viable window. Zone 5b's short season (158 frost-free days) rules out a fall crop.
When to Plant Thyme in Weld County, CO
Top priorities for Weld County, Colorado gardeners in June
We've pulled the most time-sensitive tasks for Weld County, Colorado this June and put them front and centre. Tackle them in order.
A few tasks this June that'll pay off in July
- First harvests: thyme
Thyme is a low-growing perennial herb with tiny, aromatic leaves and a warm, earthy flavor. It is one of the most versatile culinary and medicinal herbs.
Weld County, Colorado is in USDA Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is May 2 and the first fall frost is October 7, giving you a growing season of approximately 158 days.
At an elevation of 6,992 feet, Weld County receives approximately 18.8 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly loam soil. Summer highs average 87°F, providing good warmth for Thyme during the growing season. With low rainfall, drip irrigation is essential for growing Thyme successfully. Mulch heavily to conserve soil moisture.
Weld County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.6-8.1
Drainage
Well Drained
Thyme 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 Weld County
How your county's soil matches Thyme's growing requirements.
Soil pH
Your soil pH (6.6–8.1) overlaps with Thyme's range (6.0–8.0), though not a perfect match.
Soil Texture
The loam soil in Weld County is excellent for Thyme — good drainage, moisture retention, and nutrient holding capacity.
Organic Matter
Organic matter is moderate (2.2%). Annual compost additions will help Thyme.
How to Plant Thyme
Succession Planting Thyme
Sow every 8 weeks. Last sowing by Jul 09 to harvest before frost.
Thyme Water Budget
Water stress score is 8/10 — consider drought-tolerant varieties and mulching
Monthly Watering Guide for Thyme
Thyme needs approximately 0.3 inches of water per week (1.3" per month). Here's how your county's rainfall compares month by month.
| Month | Thyme Needs | Rainfall | You Supplement | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | — | 1.4" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 1" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | — | 1.5" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Apr | — | 2.1" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| May | 1.3" | 2.3" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jun | 1.3" | 1.4" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jul | 1.3" | 1.7" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Aug | 1.3" | 1.8" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Sep | 1.3" | 1.7" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Oct | 1.3" | 1.7" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Nov | — | 1.2" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Dec | — | 1.1" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (May–Oct in Weld County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Thyme 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.
Thyme Planting Timeline — Weld County, CO
Thyme Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | May 9 | May 9 – May 23 |
| Harvest | July 18 | Jul 18 – Sep 19 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | — |
| May | Transplant Outdoors |
| June | — |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| September | Harvest |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
0.3"/week · Natural rainfall sufficient
📅 Days to Maturity
70–90 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–8 · Your soil: acceptable
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 5b
📆 Growing Season
158 days in Weld County
Growing Tips for Thyme in Weld County
Direct sow Thyme outdoors after May 02 in Weld County when soil has warmed and frost danger has passed.
General growing tips
Start from seed, cuttings, or divisions. Plant in well-drained, lean soil. Prune lightly after flowering. Replace plants every 3-4 years when they become woody.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Thyme in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Thyme in Weld County, CO?
Weld County is in Zone 5b with an average last frost of May 2. Plan your Thyme planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Weld County, CO?
Weld County, Colorado is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is May 2 and first fall frost is October 7.
When should I plant Thyme in Weld County, CO?
In Weld County, CO, plant Thyme after the last frost (around May 2) and before the first frost (around October 7). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Weld County, CO for Thyme?
Weld County sits in USDA Zone 5b. Thyme grows reliably in zones 4a through 9b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Thyme grow in Weld County's climate?
Yes — Thyme grows well in Weld County's temperate climate. Weld County averages a 158-day frost-free season, with last frost around May 2 and first frost around October 7.
Your Weld County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Weld 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.