McKinley County, NM — Planting Guide
McKinley County is in USDA Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is May 29 and the first fall frost is September 24, giving you a growing season of approximately 118 days.
At an elevation of 7,104 ft, McKinley County receives approximately 10.5 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 86°F with winter lows around 16°F. The predominant soil type is Sandy Loam.
Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 30 days year to year — ranging from May 15 in warm years to June 14 in cold years. The growing season is trending longer by about 1.3 days per decade. McKinley County scores 24/100 (Challenging) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
5b (-15°F to -10°F min)
❄️ Last Frost
May 29
🍂 First Frost
September 24
📅 Growing Season
118 days
⛰️ Elevation
7,104 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
10.5 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 | 0.8 in | 2 days | — | None |
| Feb | 0.6 in | 3 days | — | None |
| Mar | 0.7 in | 1 days | — | None |
| Apr | 0.4 in | 1 days | 3.9 in | Critical |
| May | 0.3 in | 1 days | 4 in | Critical |
| Jun | 0.4 in | 2 days | 3.9 in | Critical |
| Jul | 1.8 in | 6 days | 2.5 in | High |
| Aug | 2 in | 9 days | 2.3 in | High |
| Sep | 1.3 in | 5 days | 3 in | High |
| Oct | 0.9 in | 2 days | 3.4 in | Critical |
| Nov | 0.6 in | 2 days | — | None |
| Dec | 0.8 in | 3 days | — | None |
Annual total: 10.6 in. Gardens typically need ~1 inch of water per week during the growing season. Months marked "None" for extra water are outside the active growing season for your zone — most gardens are dormant and don't need irrigation during those months.
McKinley County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sandy Loam
Soil pH
7.3-8.2
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 14 | Oct 7 | 115 days |
| Cautious | Jun 5 | Sep 30 | 117 days |
| Average year | May 29 | Sep 24 | 118 days |
| Optimistic | May 24 | Sep 20 | 119 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | May 15 | Sep 12 | 120 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±30 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 1.3 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
McKinley County has challenging growing conditions. Season extension and careful variety selection are essential.
Local Gardening Help in McKinley 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 McKinley County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
McKinley 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 McKinley County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in McKinley County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to McKinley 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 McKinley County NM" or "garden center McKinley 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 McKinley County NM" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "McKinley 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.
Sunlight & Day Length
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Longest Day
14.4 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.6 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
12.6 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: Day-neutral onion varieties like Candy, Cabernet, and Sierra Blanca perform best in your day-length range.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Daylight Hours | Peak Sun Hours | Day Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 9.8 hr | 7.3 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.7 hr | 7.8 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 9 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.9 hr | 10.6 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.9 hr | 12.2 hr | Neutral |
| June | 14.4 hr | 12.6 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.2 hr | 10.8 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.3 hr | 9.7 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 10 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.1 hr | 8.9 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.1 hr | 7.9 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.6 hr | 7.1 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 rarely reaches 60°F — use black plastic mulch to warm soil.
Best Month to Compost
Jun
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 | 10°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 3°F | 10°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 13°F | 14°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 25°F | 24°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| May | 40°F | 35°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Jun | 51°F | 44°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jul | 56°F | 49°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Aug | 57°F | 54°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Sep | 49°F | 50°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Oct | 36°F | 39°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Nov | 22°F | 29°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Dec | 11°F | 18°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 McKinley 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 6 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 | Low | Jul, Aug |
| Cabbage loopers | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Slugs | Low | Apr, May, Jun |
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 McKinley County
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with county-specific planting dates.
Fall Cover Crops (6 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austrian winter peas | Jul 15 | May 15 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Daikon radish | Aug 9 | May 15 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 3 | May 8 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Aug 26 | May 8 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 3 | May 8 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jun 18 | May 15 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Spring Cover Crops (3 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Jun 4 | Jul 23 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Jun 3 | Jul 16 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Apr 29 | Jul 23 | ✓ 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 14 | Sep 3 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
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: 10 mph Winter: 12 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
7.3/10
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 (674 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
5,283 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 2,250 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
Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Oct, Nov, 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 10.6 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 5,283 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 McKinley County
Soil Type
Sandy Loam
Soil pH 7.3–8.2 · 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
118-day frost-free season
A short season means indoor starts are critical for warm-season crops. Prioritise cold-hardy, fast-maturing varieties and use row covers to extend autumn harvests.
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 McKinley County
106 vegetables that grow well in Zone 5b with planting dates for McKinley County.
Show all 106 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Apr 24 | Jun 5 | Jun 12 | Sep 4 – Oct 9 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Apr 3 | Jun 5 | Jun 12 | Sep 11 – Oct 30 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Apr 24 | May 15 | May 29 | Jul 3 – Sep 4 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Jun 12 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | May 15 | — | Jul 10 – Aug 7 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Apr 24 | May 15 | May 29 | Sep 18 – Nov 13 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Apr 3 | Jun 5 | Jun 12 | Aug 14 – Sep 25 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Jun 5 | — | Sep 4 – Oct 23 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Apr 24 | May 15 | May 29 | Jul 10 – Aug 14 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Apr 24 | May 15 | May 29 | Jul 31 – Sep 11 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Apr 24 | May 15 | May 29 | Jul 10 – Aug 14 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Apr 24 | May 15 | May 29 | Aug 28 – Oct 23 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Apr 24 | Jun 5 | Jun 12 | Sep 11 – Oct 16 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Apr 24 | May 15 | May 29 | Jul 31 – Sep 25 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Apr 3 | Jun 5 | Jun 12 | Sep 4 – Oct 30 | 80–120 |
| Carrots | — | May 15 | — | Jul 17 – Aug 21 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Apr 24 | May 15 | May 29 | Jul 24 – Sep 25 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Apr 24 | May 15 | May 29 | Sep 11 – Oct 16 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Apr 24 | May 15 | May 29 | Aug 21 – Oct 16 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Apr 24 | May 15 | May 29 | Jul 31 – Sep 11 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Apr 24 | May 15 | May 29 | Jul 24 – Sep 11 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Apr 24 | May 15 | May 29 | Aug 21 – Oct 2 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Apr 24 | May 15 | May 29 | Jul 31 – Sep 11 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Apr 24 | May 15 | May 29 | Jul 24 – Aug 21 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Apr 3 | Jun 5 | Jun 12 | Sep 4 – Oct 9 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Apr 24 | May 15 | May 29 | Jul 24 – Sep 25 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Jun 5 | — | Aug 7 – Oct 2 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Jun 5 | — | Aug 7 – Sep 18 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Apr 24 | May 15 | May 29 | Jun 12 – Jul 3 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Apr 24 | Jun 5 | Jun 12 | Jul 31 – Aug 28 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | May 15 | — | Oct 16 – Oct 30 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Apr 24 | Jun 5 | Jun 12 | Aug 7 – Oct 2 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | May 15 | — | Jul 10 – Aug 7 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Apr 24 | Jun 5 | Jun 12 | Sep 4 – Oct 9 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Jun 5 | — | Aug 21 – Oct 2 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Mar 20 | Jun 5 | Jun 12 | Aug 21 – Oct 23 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Apr 24 | May 15 | May 29 | Jul 17 – Aug 21 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Apr 24 | May 15 | May 29 | Jul 24 – Aug 21 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Apr 24 | May 15 | May 29 | Aug 14 – Sep 25 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Apr 3 | Jun 5 | Jun 12 | Aug 14 – Sep 25 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | Jun 5 | — | Jul 31 – Sep 25 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Jun 12 | Oct 16 – Nov 27 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Mar 20 | Jun 5 | Jun 12 | Aug 21 – Nov 27 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Apr 24 | Jun 5 | Jun 12 | Sep 25 – Oct 30 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Apr 24 | Jun 5 | Jun 12 | Sep 11 – Oct 9 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Apr 24 | May 15 | May 29 | Jul 17 – Aug 14 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Apr 24 | May 15 | May 29 | Jul 24 – Sep 18 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Jun 5 | — | Sep 4 – Oct 9 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Apr 24 | May 15 | May 29 | Jul 17 – Aug 21 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Apr 24 | May 15 | May 29 | Jul 3 – Aug 7 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Apr 24 | May 15 | May 29 | Aug 28 – Nov 13 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Apr 24 | May 15 | May 29 | Aug 21 – Oct 2 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Apr 24 | May 15 | May 29 | Jul 3 – Sep 11 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Jun 5 | — | Aug 7 – Sep 18 | 60–90 |
| Mache | Apr 24 | May 15 | May 29 | Jul 10 – Aug 14 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Apr 24 | Jun 5 | Jun 12 | Aug 21 – Oct 9 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Apr 24 | May 15 | May 29 | Jun 5 – Jul 3 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Apr 24 | May 15 | May 22 | Jul 17 – Sep 11 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Apr 24 | May 15 | May 29 | Jul 3 – Jul 31 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Apr 24 | May 15 | May 29 | Jul 3 – Sep 4 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Apr 24 | May 15 | May 29 | Jul 24 – Aug 28 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Apr 3 | Jun 5 | Jun 12 | Aug 7 – Sep 4 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Apr 3 | Jun 5 | Jun 12 | Aug 7 – Oct 2 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Apr 24 | May 15 | May 29 | Aug 28 – Oct 16 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Apr 24 | May 15 | May 29 | Jul 10 – Aug 7 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | May 15 | — | Aug 28 – Oct 9 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Apr 24 | Jun 5 | Jun 12 | Jul 31 – Aug 28 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Apr 24 | May 15 | May 29 | Jul 24 – Sep 18 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Mar 20 | Jun 5 | Jun 12 | Aug 14 – Oct 23 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Apr 3 | Jun 5 | Jun 12 | Aug 7 – Oct 2 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Apr 3 | Jun 5 | Jun 12 | Aug 21 – Oct 30 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Apr 24 | Jun 5 | Jun 12 | Sep 11 – Oct 30 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Apr 24 | May 15 | May 29 | Jul 10 – Aug 14 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Apr 24 | May 15 | May 29 | Jul 31 – Sep 4 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | May 15 | — | Jun 12 – Jul 3 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Jun 19 | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Apr 24 | May 15 | May 29 | Aug 14 – Sep 25 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | May 15 | — | Aug 7 – Sep 11 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | May 15 | — | Aug 28 – Oct 9 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Apr 24 | May 15 | May 29 | Aug 7 – Oct 2 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Apr 24 | May 15 | May 29 | Jul 24 – Aug 21 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Apr 3 | Jun 5 | Jun 12 | Aug 14 – Sep 18 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Apr 24 | May 15 | May 29 | Aug 28 – Oct 16 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Apr 10 | Jun 5 | Jun 12 | Aug 7 – Oct 2 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Apr 3 | Jun 5 | Jun 12 | Aug 7 – Oct 2 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Apr 24 | May 15 | May 29 | Jul 24 – Sep 18 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Jun 5 | — | Aug 28 – Oct 23 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Apr 24 | Jun 5 | Jun 12 | Sep 11 – Oct 9 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Apr 24 | May 15 | May 29 | Jul 3 – Sep 4 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Apr 24 | Jun 5 | Jun 12 | Jul 31 – Oct 2 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Apr 24 | Jun 5 | Jun 12 | Sep 4 – Oct 30 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Jun 12 | Oct 2 – Nov 27 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Apr 3 | Jun 5 | Jun 12 | Aug 21 – Oct 9 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Jun 5 | — | Aug 7 – Sep 18 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Apr 3 | Jun 5 | Jun 12 | Sep 11 – Oct 30 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Apr 24 | May 15 | May 29 | Jul 3 – Aug 7 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Apr 3 | Jun 5 | Jun 12 | Aug 14 – Oct 23 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Apr 3 | Jun 5 | Jun 12 | Aug 14 – Oct 23 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | May 15 | — | Jun 26 – Jul 31 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Apr 24 | May 15 | May 29 | Jul 10 – Aug 14 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Apr 24 | Jun 5 | Jun 12 | Aug 21 – Oct 9 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Jun 5 | — | Jul 31 – Sep 25 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Apr 3 | Jun 5 | Jun 12 | Sep 11 – Oct 30 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Apr 3 | Jun 5 | Jun 12 | Aug 7 – Sep 18 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Apr 24 | Jun 5 | Jun 12 | Jul 31 – Sep 25 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in McKinley County
27 fruits that grow well in Zone 5b with planting dates for McKinley County.
Show all 27 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Jun 19 | Sep 18 – Dec 4 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Jun 19 | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Jun 19 | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Jun 19 | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Jun 19 | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Jun 19 | Aug 28 – Oct 2 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Jun 19 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | Jun 19 | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | Jun 19 | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Jun 19 | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Jun 19 | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Jun 19 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Jun 19 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Jun 19 | Aug 28 – Oct 23 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Jun 19 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | Jun 19 | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Jun 19 | Sep 11 – Oct 23 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Jun 19 | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | Jun 19 | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | Jun 19 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Jun 19 | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Jun 19 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Jun 19 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Quince | — | — | Jun 19 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Jun 19 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Jun 19 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Jun 19 | Sep 18 – Dec 4 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in McKinley County
37 herbs that grow well in Zone 5b with planting dates for McKinley County.
Show all 37 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Apr 24 | May 15 | May 22 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Apr 24 | May 15 | May 22 | Aug 21 – Nov 6 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Apr 10 | Jun 5 | Jun 12 | Aug 7 – Oct 9 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Jun 5 | Sep 4 – Nov 20 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Apr 24 | May 15 | May 22 | Jul 17 – Sep 4 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Apr 24 | May 15 | May 22 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Jun 5 | Aug 7 – Oct 9 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Apr 24 | May 15 | May 22 | Jul 24 – Oct 2 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Apr 24 | May 15 | May 22 | Jul 3 – Sep 4 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Jun 5 | Aug 7 – Oct 16 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Apr 24 | May 15 | May 22 | Jul 3 – Sep 4 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Jun 5 | Aug 7 – Oct 16 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Apr 24 | May 15 | May 22 | Sep 4 – Nov 6 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Apr 24 | May 15 | May 22 | Jul 3 – Sep 4 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | Jun 5 | Oct 9 – Nov 20 | 120–180 |
| Epazote | Apr 10 | Jun 5 | Jun 12 | Jul 31 – Sep 25 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Apr 24 | May 15 | May 22 | Jul 24 – Oct 2 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Jun 5 | Sep 4 – Nov 20 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Jun 5 | Aug 7 – Oct 16 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Jun 5 | Aug 21 – Oct 16 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Jun 5 | Aug 14 – Oct 16 | 70–90 |
| Lavender | — | — | Jun 5 | Sep 4 – Nov 20 | 90–200 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Jun 5 | Aug 7 – Sep 25 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Jun 5 | Aug 14 – Oct 16 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | Jun 5 | Aug 14 – Oct 16 | 70–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Jun 5 | Aug 7 – Oct 16 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Jun 5 | Aug 7 – Oct 16 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Apr 24 | May 15 | May 22 | Jul 24 – Sep 25 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | Jun 5 | Aug 14 – Oct 16 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Jun 5 | Aug 21 – Oct 16 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Jun 5 | Jul 31 – Sep 25 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Apr 24 | May 15 | May 22 | Jul 3 – Sep 4 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Jun 5 | Aug 7 – Oct 16 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Apr 10 | Jun 5 | Jun 12 | Aug 7 – Oct 9 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Jun 5 | Aug 14 – Oct 16 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Jun 5 | Oct 9 – Nov 20 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | Jun 5 | Sep 4 – Nov 20 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for McKinley County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in McKinley County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is McKinley County, NM?
McKinley County is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5b. 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 McKinley County, NM?
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in McKinley County falls around May 29. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between May 15 and June 14 — a 30-day window of variability. Use June 14 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in McKinley County, NM?
The median first fall frost in McKinley County arrives around September 24. In cold years it can arrive as early as September 12; in mild years as late as October 7. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in McKinley County?
McKinley County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 118 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 1.3 days per decade.
What is the soil like in McKinley County for gardening?
McKinley County has predominantly Sandy Loam soil with a pH range of 7.3–8.2 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 McKinley County?
McKinley County has commercial agriculture that includes Cattle, Hay, Cotton, Pecans, Dairy. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is McKinley County a good location for home gardening?
McKinley County scores 24/100 (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 McKinley County gardeners in Zone 5b 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.
