Cloudcroft, NM — Planting Guide for June
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June in the garden — Otero County, New Mexico
June rewards gardeners who work with the weather, not against it. Here's how to stay in step this month in Otero County, New Mexico.
-
Start basil, kale, and lettuce indoors
A seed-starting mix and a sunny window (or a grow light) are all you need. Keep soil warm — around 70°F — for fast germination.
-
Collect carrots, kale, and lettuce at their peak
Taste as you pick. The first ripe produce is the best feedback loop you'll get all season.
Get ahead of July
- Starting indoors: peppers, begonias, and eggplant
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
Cloudcroft gardens in a dry climate (only 9" annual precipitation). Watering strategy matters more here than in most of the country — drip irrigation, deep mulching, and morning watering aren't optional, they're table stakes. The flip side: pest and disease pressure are far lower than in humid regions, and your soil temperatures climb fast in spring so you can plant heat-lovers earlier than the zone map suggests.
Native soil is Sandy Loam — warms fast and drains free, but nutrients and water wash through. Plan on heavy organic-matter additions and either drip irrigation or frequent shallow waterings to keep crops happy.
Cloudcroft averages 35.8 drought weeks per year (US Drought Monitor, 2000–present, trend stable). Treat irrigation as a year-round system, not a summer add-on.
🌡️ USDA Zone
8a (10°F to 15°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
April 30
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 18
📅 Growing Season
171 days
🌧️ Climate
Arid 9.1" annual
💨 Wind
Unknown 0.0 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
35.8 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Cloudcroft
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
Quick context: Watering by the calendar wastes water. Watering by the soil moisture (or by a free rain gauge) cuts your water use 30%+ and produces healthier roots. Cloudcroft's 9" annual baseline is the starting point.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 1 in | 3 days | — | None |
| Feb | 0.8 in | 2 days | — | None |
| Mar | 0.9 in | 1 days | 3.4 in | Critical |
| Apr | 0.5 in | 1 days | 3.8 in | Critical |
| May | 0.3 in | 1 days | 4 in | Critical |
| Jun | 0.5 in | 2 days | 3.8 in | Critical |
| Jul | 2 in | 7 days | 2.3 in | High |
| Aug | 2.8 in | 7 days | 1.5 in | Moderate |
| Sep | 2.1 in | 5 days | 2.2 in | High |
| Oct | 1.2 in | 2 days | 3.1 in | Critical |
| Nov | 0.8 in | 2 days | — | None |
| Dec | 0.9 in | 2 days | — | None |
Annual total: 13.8 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.
Cloudcroft Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sandy Loam
Soil pH
7.2-8.7
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) | May 14 | Oct 31 | 170 days |
| Cautious | May 3 | Oct 24 | 174 days |
| Average year | Apr 30 | Oct 18 | 171 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 25 | Oct 10 | 168 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 12 | Oct 4 | 175 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±32 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Slightly — seasons are trending a bit longer (0.8 days/decade). Historical frost dates are still reliable for planning.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Otero County has challenging growing conditions. Season extension and careful variety selection are essential.
Local Gardening Help in Otero 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 Otero County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Otero 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 Otero County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Otero County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Otero 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 Otero County NM" or "garden center Otero 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 Otero County NM" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Otero 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 in Cloudcroft
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Why this matters: The longest day at Cloudcroft's latitude gets longer the further north you go. Strawberries, garlic, onions all care. The shortest day gets shorter — which limits winter growing for greens without artificial light.
Longest Day
14.1 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.9 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
12.1 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 | 10.1 hr | 7.5 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.8 hr | 8.3 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.8 hr | 9.3 hr | Short day |
| April | 12.8 hr | 10.1 hr | Neutral |
| May | 13.7 hr | 12.1 hr | Neutral |
| June | 14.1 hr | 11.8 hr | Long day |
| July | 13.9 hr | 10.5 hr | Neutral |
| August | 13.2 hr | 9.7 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 9.8 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11.2 hr | 9 hr | Short day |
| November | 10.3 hr | 7.7 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.9 hr | 7.4 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Cloudcroft
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Quick context: Soil heats slower than air in spring and cools slower in fall. That's why "warm" April air doesn't mean "plant tomatoes" — soil still trails by weeks. Cloudcroft's monthly soil curve makes the lag visible.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from Jun through Sep.
Best Month to Compost
Jun
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
6 months
Solid season. Piles go dormant in winter.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 28°F | 35°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 28°F | 32°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 36°F | 36°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 46°F | 46°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| May | 58°F | 54°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 67°F | 64°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 73°F | 69°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 76°F | 71°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 71°F | 69°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 58°F | 59°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 46°F | 50°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Dec | 33°F | 40°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 Cloudcroft
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Why it matters: Pest pressure scales with warmth and humidity. Hot humid Cloudcroft sees year-round bugs and fungal disease; cold dry regions see almost none. A high pest score means crop rotation, resistant varieties, and a weekly pest-watch routine from day one.
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 | High | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Japanese beetles | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash vine borers | High | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Whiteflies | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Spider mites | Moderate | Jul, Aug |
Organic pest management tips
- Use row covers on susceptible crops during peak pest months
- Apply neem oil preventatively every 7-14 days during active pest season
- Interplant with strong-scented herbs (basil, marigold) to confuse pests
- Hand-pick larger pests (beetles, caterpillars) in early morning when they're sluggish
- Practice crop rotation — never plant the same family in the same spot within 3 years
Cover Crops for Cloudcroft
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
Why this matters: Cover crops protect microbial life through winter and summer. Bare soil bakes; covered soil stays cooler, moister, and biologically active. The difference shows up in next year's crops.
Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | May 5 | Aug 9 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | May 1 | Aug 9 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | May 11 | Aug 9 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Apr 1 | Aug 9 | ✓ Yes | Living mulch, fixes nitrogen, permanent ground cover |
Summer Cover Crops (1 options) — Fill gaps and suppress weeds between plantings
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sunflowers | May 16 | Oct 4 | — | 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 | Aug 9 | Apr 16 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Aug 19 | Apr 16 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 5 | Apr 9 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 25 | Apr 9 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 20 | Apr 16 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 9 | Apr 16 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 21 | Apr 16 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Cloudcroft
For new gardeners: New gardeners under-plan for wind. Cloudcroft averages 0.0 mph — fine for most days. But every region has its windy days, and the first time a row of unstaked peppers leans over after a storm is a lesson you only need once.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 14 mph Summer: 11 mph
Fall: 10 mph Winter: 11 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
7.4/10
Strongly recommended — a windbreak (fence, hedge, or row of tall crops like corn or sunflowers) will significantly improve garden yields.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (332 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Cloudcroft
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Why this matters: A single rain barrel under a downspout catches 50 gallons in a 0.5" storm. Cloudcroft's 9" annual rainfall means even modest harvesting systems quickly amortize their cost in water savings.
Annual Collection
6,877 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, 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 13.8 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 6,877 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
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Cloudcroft
114 vegetables matched to Zone 8a with planting dates calibrated for Cloudcroft.
Show all 114 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Aug 6 – Sep 10 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 12 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Aug 13 – Oct 1 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | May 14 | — | Sep 17 – Nov 26 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 9 | Jun 4 – Aug 6 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 14 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Apr 16 | — | Aug 9 | Jun 11 – Jul 9 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 9 | Aug 20 – Oct 15 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Mar 12 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 16 – Aug 27 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | May 7 | — | — | Aug 6 – Sep 24 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 9 | Jun 11 – Jul 16 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 9 | Jul 2 – Aug 13 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 9 | Jun 11 – Jul 16 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 9 | Jul 30 – Sep 24 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Aug 13 – Sep 17 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 9 | Jul 2 – Aug 27 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Mar 12 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Aug 6 – Oct 1 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | May 14 | — | Sep 17 – Oct 29 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Apr 16 | — | Aug 9 | Jun 18 – Jul 23 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 9 | Jun 25 – Aug 27 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 9 | Aug 13 – Sep 17 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 9 | Jul 23 – Sep 17 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 9 | Jul 2 – Aug 13 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 9 | Jun 25 – Aug 13 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Mar 12 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Sep 17 – Nov 26 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 9 | Jul 23 – Sep 3 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 9 | Jul 2 – Aug 13 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 9 | Jun 25 – Jul 23 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 12 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Aug 6 – Sep 10 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 9 | Jun 25 – Aug 27 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | May 7 | — | — | Jul 9 – Sep 3 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | May 7 | — | — | Jul 9 – Aug 20 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 9 | May 14 – Jun 4 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 2 – Jul 30 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Apr 16 | — | Aug 9 | Sep 17 – Nov 19 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 3 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Apr 16 | — | Aug 9 | Jun 11 – Jul 9 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Aug 6 – Sep 10 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | May 7 | — | — | Jul 23 – Sep 3 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 26 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 23 – Sep 24 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 9 | Jun 18 – Jul 23 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 9 | Jun 25 – Jul 23 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 9 | Jul 16 – Aug 27 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 12 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 16 – Aug 27 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 6 | Dec 6 – May 23 | 90–240 |
| Ginger | Mar 12 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jan 14 – Jan 28 | 240–300 |
| Green Beans | — | May 7 | — | — | Jul 2 – Aug 27 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 14 | — | Sep 17 – Nov 26 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 26 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 23 – Oct 29 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Aug 27 – Oct 1 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Mar 12 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Sep 17 – Nov 26 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Aug 13 – Sep 10 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 9 | Jun 18 – Jul 16 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 9 | Jun 25 – Aug 20 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | May 7 | — | — | Aug 6 – Sep 10 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 9 | Jun 18 – Jul 23 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 9 | Jun 4 – Jul 9 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 9 | Jul 30 – Oct 15 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 9 | Jul 23 – Sep 3 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 9 | Jun 4 – Aug 13 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | May 7 | — | — | Jul 9 – Aug 20 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Mar 12 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Aug 27 – Oct 29 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Mar 12 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Aug 13 – Oct 29 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 9 | Jun 11 – Jul 16 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Mar 12 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 9 – Aug 6 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 23 – Sep 10 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 9 | May 7 – Jun 4 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Aug 9 | Jun 18 – Aug 13 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 9 | Jun 4 – Jul 2 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 9 | Jun 4 – Aug 6 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 9 | Jun 25 – Jul 30 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Mar 12 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 9 – Aug 6 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Mar 12 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 3 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 9 | Jul 30 – Sep 17 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 9 | Jun 11 – Jul 9 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Apr 16 | — | Aug 9 | Jul 30 – Sep 10 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 2 – Jul 30 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 9 | Jun 25 – Aug 20 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 26 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 24 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 12 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 3 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 12 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 23 – Oct 1 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Aug 13 – Oct 1 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 9 | Jun 11 – Jul 16 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 9 | Jul 2 – Aug 6 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Apr 16 | — | Aug 9 | May 14 – Jun 4 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 21 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 9 | Jul 16 – Aug 27 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Apr 16 | — | Aug 9 | Jul 9 – Aug 13 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Apr 16 | — | Aug 9 | Jul 30 – Sep 10 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 9 | Jul 9 – Sep 3 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 9 | Jun 25 – Jul 23 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 12 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 16 – Aug 20 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 9 | Jul 30 – Sep 17 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 12 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 3 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 12 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 3 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 9 | Jun 25 – Aug 20 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | May 7 | — | — | Jul 30 – Sep 24 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Aug 13 – Sep 10 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 9 | Jun 4 – Aug 6 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 2 – Sep 3 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Aug 6 – Oct 1 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 14 | — | Sep 3 – Oct 29 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | May 7 | — | — | Jul 9 – Aug 20 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Mar 12 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Aug 13 – Oct 1 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 9 | Jun 4 – Jul 9 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 12 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 24 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 12 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 24 | 60–85 |
| Turmeric | Mar 12 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jan 14 – Jan 28 | 240–300 |
| Turnip | — | Apr 16 | — | Aug 9 | May 28 – Jul 2 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 30 | Aug 9 | Jun 11 – Jul 16 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 23 – Sep 10 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | May 7 | — | — | Jul 2 – Aug 27 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Mar 12 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Aug 13 – Oct 1 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Mar 12 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 9 – Aug 20 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Apr 2 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 2 – Aug 27 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Cloudcroft
27 fruits matched to Zone 8a with planting dates calibrated for Cloudcroft.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 21 | — | Aug 20 – Dec 3 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | May 21 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 21 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | May 21 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 21 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 21 | — | Jul 30 – Sep 3 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 21 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 21 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | May 21 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 21 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | May 21 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 21 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 21 | — | Jul 30 – Sep 24 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | May 21 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 21 | — | Aug 13 – Sep 24 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | May 21 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | May 21 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Loquat | — | — | May 21 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | May 21 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 21 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 21 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 21 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | May 21 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | May 21 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 21 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 21 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 21 | — | Aug 20 – Feb 4 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Cloudcroft
39 herbs matched to Zone 8a with planting dates calibrated for Cloudcroft.
Show all 39 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Aug 9 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Aug 9 | Jul 23 – Oct 8 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 12 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 10 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 7 | — | Aug 6 – Oct 22 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Aug 9 | Jun 18 – Aug 6 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Aug 9 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 7 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 10 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Aug 9 | Jun 25 – Sep 3 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Aug 9 | Jun 4 – Aug 6 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 7 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 17 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Aug 9 | Jun 4 – Aug 6 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 7 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 17 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Aug 9 | Aug 6 – Oct 8 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Aug 9 | Jun 4 – Aug 6 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Mar 12 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 2 – Aug 27 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Aug 9 | Jun 25 – Sep 3 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | May 7 | — | Aug 6 – Oct 22 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | May 7 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 17 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | May 7 | — | Jul 23 – Sep 17 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | May 7 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 17 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | May 7 | — | Jul 9 – Aug 27 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | May 7 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 17 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Verbena | Mar 12 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 24 | 60–90 |
| Lemongrass | Mar 12 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 30 – Oct 29 | 75–120 |
| Lovage | — | — | May 7 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 17 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | May 7 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 17 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | May 7 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 17 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | May 7 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 17 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Aug 9 | Jun 25 – Aug 27 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | May 7 | — | Jul 30 – Dec 17 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | May 7 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 17 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | May 7 | — | Jul 23 – Sep 17 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | May 7 | — | Jul 2 – Aug 27 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Apr 23 | Aug 9 | Jun 4 – Aug 6 | 40–60 |
| Stevia | Mar 12 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 24 | 60–90 |
| Tarragon | — | — | May 7 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 17 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 12 | May 7 | May 14 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 10 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | May 7 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 17 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 7 | — | Sep 10 – Dec 17 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Cloudcroft
54 flowers matched to Zone 8a with planting dates calibrated for Cloudcroft.
Show all 54 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Mar 19 | Apr 23 | Apr 23 | — | Jun 18 – Nov 5 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Sep 13 | Oct 11 – Nov 1 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Aug 23 | Sep 6 – Oct 4 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Mar 5 | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 9 – Aug 27 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | — | Mar 19 | Apr 16 | Aug 23 | Jun 18 – Oct 1 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Feb 19 | — | Apr 23 | — | Jul 2 – Nov 19 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Mar 5 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | — | Jul 9 – Nov 26 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Mar 5 | — | Apr 30 | — | Jun 18 – Jul 16 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | — | Mar 19 | Apr 16 | Aug 9 | Jun 4 – Oct 15 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | — | — | Aug 23 | Nov 1 – Feb 7 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Apr 2 | Apr 23 | Apr 23 | — | Jun 25 – Nov 19 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Mar 5 | Apr 30 | Apr 30 | — | Jun 18 – Jul 16 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Mar 5 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | — | Jul 2 – Nov 26 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Apr 2 | Apr 16 | Apr 16 | — | Jun 25 – Nov 12 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Sep 20 | Aug 23 – Sep 13 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Sep 13 | Aug 23 – Sep 20 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Apr 9 | Apr 30 | Apr 30 | — | Jul 9 – Dec 10 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Mar 5 | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 9 – Nov 26 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Mar 5 | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | — | May 14 – Jul 30 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Mar 5 | Apr 30 | Apr 30 | — | Jul 9 – Nov 26 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Mar 5 | Apr 30 | Apr 30 | — | Jun 18 – Jul 16 | 80–120 |
| Freesia | — | — | — | Sep 6 | Oct 4 – Nov 1 | 84–112 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Mar 12 | Apr 23 | Apr 23 | — | Jul 2 – Dec 17 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Feb 19 | — | Apr 23 | — | Jul 2 – Nov 19 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Apr 30 | Apr 30 | — | Jul 9 – Dec 10 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Feb 26 | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 9 – Nov 12 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Sep 20 | Sep 13 – Oct 4 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Feb 26 | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 9 – Nov 12 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Mar 5 | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 9 – Nov 26 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Apr 30 | — | Jun 18 – Jul 23 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Apr 2 | — | Aug 9 | Jun 11 – Sep 17 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Feb 26 | — | May 7 | — | Jul 16 – Oct 22 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Apr 30 | — | Jul 9 – Oct 29 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Mar 5 | — | Mar 26 | — | May 21 – Jul 16 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Mar 5 | Apr 30 | Apr 30 | — | Jun 18 – Jul 16 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Mar 19 | Apr 23 | Apr 23 | — | Jun 18 – Oct 22 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Apr 2 | Apr 23 | Apr 23 | — | Jun 18 – Nov 19 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Feb 19 | — | Apr 16 | Aug 9 | Jun 11 – Sep 17 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | Apr 30 | — | Jun 25 – Jul 23 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Mar 5 | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 9 – Nov 12 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Mar 5 | Apr 30 | Apr 30 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 17 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Apr 2 | Apr 23 | Apr 23 | — | Jun 11 – Nov 5 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Aug 23 | Sep 6 – Oct 11 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Feb 26 | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 9 – Nov 26 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Mar 5 | — | Apr 23 | — | Jul 2 – Nov 19 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Mar 5 | — | Apr 30 | — | Aug 20 – Nov 12 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Feb 19 | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Aug 9 | Jun 25 – Oct 15 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Apr 23 | — | Jul 16 – Nov 19 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Mar 19 | Mar 26 | Apr 16 | Aug 23 | May 28 – Sep 17 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | — | — | — | Aug 16 | Oct 25 – Jan 17 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Sep 20 | Sep 6 – Oct 4 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Feb 19 | — | Apr 23 | — | Jul 2 – Nov 19 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Mar 5 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | — | Jul 2 – Nov 26 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Apr 2 | Apr 23 | Apr 23 | — | Jul 2 – Nov 19 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Cloudcroft
ZIP Codes in Cloudcroft
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 Otero County.
Your Otero County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Otero County (Zone 8a). 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