Colfax County, NM — Planting Guide
Colfax County is in USDA Zone 5a. The average last spring frost is May 15 and the first fall frost is September 26, giving you a growing season of approximately 134 days.
At an elevation of 5,131 ft, Colfax County receives approximately 15.5 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 84°F with winter lows around 19°F. The predominant soil type is Sandy Loam.
Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 48 days year to year — ranging from April 29 in warm years to June 16 in cold years. The growing season is trending longer by about 4.44 days per decade. Colfax County scores 22/100 (Challenging) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
5a (-20°F to -15°F min)
❄️ Last Frost
May 15
🍂 First Frost
September 26
📅 Growing Season
134 days
⛰️ Elevation
5,131 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
15.5 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 | 1.1 in | 2 days | — | None |
| Feb | 0.8 in | 3 days | — | None |
| Mar | 0.9 in | 2 days | — | None |
| Apr | 0.5 in | 0 days | 3.8 in | Critical |
| May | 0.4 in | 1 days | 3.9 in | Critical |
| Jun | 0.5 in | 1 days | 3.8 in | Critical |
| Jul | 3 in | 7 days | 1.3 in | Moderate |
| Aug | 2.9 in | 8 days | 1.4 in | Moderate |
| Sep | 2 in | 5 days | 2.3 in | High |
| Oct | 1.3 in | 2 days | 3 in | High |
| Nov | 1 in | 2 days | — | None |
| Dec | 1 in | 2 days | — | None |
Annual total: 15.4 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.
Colfax County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sandy Loam
Soil pH
7.1-8.1
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 16 | Oct 12 | 118 days |
| Cautious | May 29 | Oct 4 | 128 days |
| Average year | May 15 | Sep 26 | 134 days |
| Optimistic | May 6 | Sep 17 | 134 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 29 | Sep 8 | 132 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±48 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 4.4 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Colfax County has challenging growing conditions. Season extension and careful variety selection are essential.
Local Gardening Help in Colfax 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 Colfax County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Colfax County New Mexico State University Extension Extension Office
Phone: 575-646-3015
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 Colfax County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Colfax County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Colfax 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 Colfax County NM" or "garden center Colfax 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 Colfax County NM" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Colfax County Gardeners" or "New Mexico 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
14.5 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.5 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
13 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 | 9.8 hr | 7.2 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.7 hr | 7.7 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 8.8 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.9 hr | 10.9 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14 hr | 12.1 hr | Long day |
| June | 14.5 hr | 13 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.3 hr | 10.6 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.4 hr | 9.3 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 9.9 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11 hr | 9.2 hr | Short day |
| November | 10 hr | 7.4 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.5 hr | 6.7 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 warm enough from Jul through Aug.
Best Month to Compost
Jul
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 | 10°F | 16°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 9°F | 17°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 19°F | 22°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 31°F | 30°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| May | 47°F | 43°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Jun | 55°F | 50°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jul | 65°F | 58°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 64°F | 60°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Sep | 57°F | 57°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Oct | 43°F | 46°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Nov | 31°F | 35°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Dec | 16°F | 23°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 Colfax 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 | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Tomato hornworms | Moderate | Jul, Aug |
| Cabbage loopers | Low | 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 Colfax 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 26 | Jul 25 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | May 25 | Jul 25 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Apr 17 | Jul 18 | ✓ 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 | Jun 11 | Sep 5 | — | 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 3 | Apr 24 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Daikon radish | Aug 16 | Apr 24 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 15 | May 1 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Aug 29 | Apr 24 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jun 22 | May 1 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jun 30 | Apr 24 | — | 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: 9 mph
Fall: 9 mph Winter: 13 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
7.2/10
Strongly recommended — a windbreak (fence, hedge, or row of tall crops like corn or sunflowers) will significantly improve garden yields.
Frost Pocket Risk
Moderate
Some terrain variation (885 ft range). Garden on slopes or higher ground if possible to avoid late-season frost pockets.
Rainwater Harvesting Potential
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Annual Collection
7,675 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
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Jun
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 15.4 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 7,675 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- 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 Colfax County
Soil Type
Sandy Loam
Soil pH 7.1–8.1 · Excessively Drained drainage
Raised beds strongly recommended here — native soil drainage or texture limits in-ground options.
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
134-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.
Free Garden Planner
Plan your entire garden season — organize planting dates, track what you're growing, and know exactly when to start seeds, transplant, and harvest.
Recommended for Your Garden
Retain moisture and nutrients in sandy soils with expanded vermiculite.
Test your soil pH, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium levels before planting.
Get instant, accurate soil pH readings to fine-tune your amendments.
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Colfax County
106 vegetables that grow well in Zone 5a with planting dates for Colfax County.
Show all 106 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Apr 10 | May 22 | May 29 | Aug 21 – Sep 25 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 20 | May 22 | May 29 | Aug 28 – Oct 16 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Apr 10 | May 1 | May 15 | Jun 19 – Aug 21 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 29 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | May 1 | — | Jun 26 – Jul 24 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Apr 10 | May 1 | May 15 | Sep 4 – Oct 30 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Mar 20 | May 22 | May 29 | Jul 31 – Sep 11 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | May 22 | — | Aug 21 – Oct 9 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Apr 10 | May 1 | May 15 | Jun 26 – Jul 31 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Apr 10 | May 1 | May 15 | Jul 17 – Aug 28 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Apr 10 | May 1 | May 15 | Jun 26 – Jul 31 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Apr 10 | May 1 | May 15 | Aug 14 – Oct 9 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Apr 10 | May 22 | May 29 | Aug 28 – Oct 2 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Apr 10 | May 1 | May 15 | Jul 17 – Sep 11 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Mar 20 | May 22 | May 29 | Aug 21 – Oct 16 | 80–120 |
| Carrots | — | May 1 | — | Jul 3 – Aug 7 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Apr 10 | May 1 | May 15 | Jul 10 – Sep 11 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Apr 10 | May 1 | May 15 | Aug 28 – Oct 2 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Apr 10 | May 1 | May 15 | Aug 7 – Oct 2 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Apr 10 | May 1 | May 15 | Jul 17 – Aug 28 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Apr 10 | May 1 | May 15 | Jul 10 – Aug 28 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Apr 10 | May 1 | May 15 | Aug 7 – Sep 18 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Apr 10 | May 1 | May 15 | Jul 17 – Aug 28 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Apr 10 | May 1 | May 15 | Jul 10 – Aug 7 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 20 | May 22 | May 29 | Aug 21 – Sep 25 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Apr 10 | May 1 | May 15 | Jul 10 – Sep 11 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | May 22 | — | Jul 24 – Sep 18 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | May 22 | — | Jul 24 – Sep 4 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Apr 10 | May 1 | May 15 | May 29 – Jun 19 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Apr 10 | May 22 | May 29 | Jul 17 – Aug 14 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | May 1 | — | Oct 2 – Oct 16 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Apr 10 | May 22 | May 29 | Jul 24 – Sep 18 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | May 1 | — | Jun 26 – Jul 24 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Apr 10 | May 22 | May 29 | Aug 21 – Sep 25 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | May 22 | — | Aug 7 – Sep 18 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Mar 6 | May 22 | May 29 | Aug 7 – Oct 9 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Apr 10 | May 1 | May 15 | Jul 3 – Aug 7 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Apr 10 | May 1 | May 15 | Jul 10 – Aug 7 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Apr 10 | May 1 | May 15 | Jul 31 – Sep 11 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 20 | May 22 | May 29 | Jul 31 – Sep 11 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | May 22 | — | Jul 17 – Sep 11 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 29 | Oct 2 – Nov 13 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Mar 6 | May 22 | May 29 | Aug 7 – Nov 13 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Apr 10 | May 22 | May 29 | Sep 11 – Oct 16 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Apr 10 | May 22 | May 29 | Aug 28 – Sep 25 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Apr 10 | May 1 | May 15 | Jul 3 – Jul 31 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Apr 10 | May 1 | May 15 | Jul 10 – Sep 4 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | May 22 | — | Aug 21 – Sep 25 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Apr 10 | May 1 | May 15 | Jul 3 – Aug 7 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Apr 10 | May 1 | May 15 | Jun 19 – Jul 24 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Apr 10 | May 1 | May 15 | Aug 14 – Oct 30 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Apr 10 | May 1 | May 15 | Aug 7 – Sep 18 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Apr 10 | May 1 | May 15 | Jun 19 – Aug 28 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | May 22 | — | Jul 24 – Sep 4 | 60–90 |
| Mache | Apr 10 | May 1 | May 15 | Jun 26 – Jul 31 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Apr 10 | May 22 | May 29 | Aug 7 – Sep 25 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Apr 10 | May 1 | May 15 | May 22 – Jun 19 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Apr 10 | May 1 | May 8 | Jul 3 – Aug 28 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Apr 10 | May 1 | May 15 | Jun 19 – Jul 17 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Apr 10 | May 1 | May 15 | Jun 19 – Aug 21 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Apr 10 | May 1 | May 15 | Jul 10 – Aug 14 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Mar 20 | May 22 | May 29 | Jul 24 – Aug 21 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Mar 20 | May 22 | May 29 | Jul 24 – Sep 18 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Apr 10 | May 1 | May 15 | Aug 14 – Oct 2 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Apr 10 | May 1 | May 15 | Jun 26 – Jul 24 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | May 1 | — | Aug 14 – Sep 25 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Apr 10 | May 22 | May 29 | Jul 17 – Aug 14 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Apr 10 | May 1 | May 15 | Jul 10 – Sep 4 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Mar 6 | May 22 | May 29 | Jul 31 – Oct 9 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 20 | May 22 | May 29 | Jul 24 – Sep 18 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 20 | May 22 | May 29 | Aug 7 – Oct 16 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Apr 10 | May 22 | May 29 | Aug 28 – Oct 16 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Apr 10 | May 1 | May 15 | Jun 26 – Jul 31 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Apr 10 | May 1 | May 15 | Jul 17 – Aug 21 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | May 1 | — | May 29 – Jun 19 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Jun 5 | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Apr 10 | May 1 | May 15 | Jul 31 – Sep 11 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | May 1 | — | Jul 24 – Aug 28 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | May 1 | — | Aug 14 – Sep 25 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Apr 10 | May 1 | May 15 | Jul 24 – Sep 18 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Apr 10 | May 1 | May 15 | Jul 10 – Aug 7 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 20 | May 22 | May 29 | Jul 31 – Sep 4 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Apr 10 | May 1 | May 15 | Aug 14 – Oct 2 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 27 | May 22 | May 29 | Jul 24 – Sep 18 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 20 | May 22 | May 29 | Jul 24 – Sep 18 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Apr 10 | May 1 | May 15 | Jul 10 – Sep 4 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | May 22 | — | Aug 14 – Oct 9 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Apr 10 | May 22 | May 29 | Aug 28 – Sep 25 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Apr 10 | May 1 | May 15 | Jun 19 – Aug 21 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Apr 10 | May 22 | May 29 | Jul 17 – Sep 18 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Apr 10 | May 22 | May 29 | Aug 21 – Oct 16 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 29 | Sep 18 – Nov 13 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Mar 20 | May 22 | May 29 | Aug 7 – Sep 25 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | May 22 | — | Jul 24 – Sep 4 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Mar 20 | May 22 | May 29 | Aug 28 – Oct 16 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Apr 10 | May 1 | May 15 | Jun 19 – Jul 24 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 20 | May 22 | May 29 | Jul 31 – Oct 9 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 20 | May 22 | May 29 | Jul 31 – Oct 9 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | May 1 | — | Jun 12 – Jul 17 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Apr 10 | May 1 | May 15 | Jun 26 – Jul 31 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Apr 10 | May 22 | May 29 | Aug 7 – Sep 25 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | May 22 | — | Jul 17 – Sep 11 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Mar 20 | May 22 | May 29 | Aug 28 – Oct 16 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Mar 20 | May 22 | May 29 | Jul 24 – Sep 4 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Apr 10 | May 22 | May 29 | Jul 17 – Sep 11 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Colfax County
27 fruits that grow well in Zone 5a with planting dates for Colfax County.
Show all 27 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Jun 5 | Sep 4 – Nov 20 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Jun 5 | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Jun 5 | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Jun 5 | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Jun 5 | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Jun 5 | Aug 14 – Sep 18 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Jun 5 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | Jun 5 | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | Jun 5 | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Jun 5 | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Jun 5 | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Jun 5 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Jun 5 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Jun 5 | Aug 14 – Oct 9 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Jun 5 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | Jun 5 | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Jun 5 | Aug 28 – Oct 9 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Jun 5 | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | Jun 5 | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | Jun 5 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Jun 5 | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Jun 5 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Jun 5 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Quince | — | — | Jun 5 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Jun 5 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Jun 5 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Jun 5 | Sep 4 – Nov 20 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Colfax County
37 herbs that grow well in Zone 5a with planting dates for Colfax County.
Show all 37 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Apr 10 | May 1 | May 8 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Apr 10 | May 1 | May 8 | Aug 7 – Oct 23 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 27 | May 22 | May 29 | Jul 24 – Sep 25 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 22 | Aug 21 – Nov 6 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Apr 10 | May 1 | May 8 | Jul 3 – Aug 21 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Apr 10 | May 1 | May 8 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 22 | Jul 24 – Sep 25 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Apr 10 | May 1 | May 8 | Jul 10 – Sep 18 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Apr 10 | May 1 | May 8 | Jun 19 – Aug 21 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 22 | Jul 24 – Oct 2 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Apr 10 | May 1 | May 8 | Jun 19 – Aug 21 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 22 | Jul 24 – Oct 2 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Apr 10 | May 1 | May 8 | Aug 21 – Oct 23 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Apr 10 | May 1 | May 8 | Jun 19 – Aug 21 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | May 22 | Sep 25 – Nov 6 | 120–180 |
| Epazote | Mar 27 | May 22 | May 29 | Jul 17 – Sep 11 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Apr 10 | May 1 | May 8 | Jul 10 – Sep 18 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | May 22 | Aug 21 – Nov 6 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | May 22 | Jul 24 – Oct 2 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | May 22 | Aug 7 – Oct 2 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | May 22 | Jul 31 – Oct 2 | 70–90 |
| Lavender | — | — | May 22 | Aug 21 – Nov 6 | 90–200 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | May 22 | Jul 24 – Sep 11 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | May 22 | Jul 31 – Oct 2 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | May 22 | Jul 31 – Oct 2 | 70–90 |
| Mint | — | — | May 22 | Jul 24 – Oct 2 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | May 22 | Jul 24 – Oct 2 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Apr 10 | May 1 | May 8 | Jul 10 – Sep 11 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | May 22 | Jul 31 – Oct 2 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | May 22 | Aug 7 – Oct 2 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | May 22 | Jul 17 – Sep 11 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Apr 10 | May 1 | May 8 | Jun 19 – Aug 21 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | May 22 | Jul 24 – Oct 2 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 27 | May 22 | May 29 | Jul 24 – Sep 25 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | May 22 | Jul 31 – Oct 2 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 22 | Sep 25 – Nov 6 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | May 22 | Aug 21 – Nov 6 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Colfax County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Colfax County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Colfax County, NM?
Colfax County is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5a. 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 Colfax County, NM?
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Colfax County falls around May 15. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between April 29 and June 16 — a 48-day window of variability. Use June 16 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Colfax County, NM?
The median first fall frost in Colfax County arrives around September 26. In cold years it can arrive as early as September 8; in mild years as late as October 12. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Colfax County?
Colfax County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 134 days. Focus on short-season varieties and start warm-season crops indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost. Climate records show the growing season is trending longer by about 4.44 days per decade.
What is the soil like in Colfax County for gardening?
Colfax County has predominantly Sandy Loam soil with a pH range of 7.1–8.1 and Excessively Drained drainage. The native soil conditions make raised beds a particularly good investment here — they let you control drainage and fertility independent of the ground soil.
What is grown commercially in Colfax County?
Colfax County has commercial agriculture that includes Cattle, Hay, Cotton, Dairy, Pecans. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Colfax County a good location for home gardening?
Colfax County scores 22/100 (Challenging) 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.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Colfax County gardeners in Zone 5a organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
Get Your Free Garden Planner →Free download. Plan your entire garden season in minutes.
