When to Plant Tomatillo in Montezuma County, CO
Tomatillos are a Mexican staple that produces tart, green fruits enclosed in papery husks. They are essential for salsa verde and green sauces.
Montezuma County, Colorado is in USDA Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is May 27 and the first fall frost is September 27, giving you a growing season of approximately 123 days.
At an elevation of 8,063 feet, Montezuma County receives approximately 15.2 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly loam soil. Summer highs average 84°F, so choose short-season varieties of Tomatillo to ensure they mature before fall. With low rainfall, drip irrigation is essential for growing Tomatillo successfully. Mulch heavily to conserve soil moisture.
Montezuma County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.4-7.7
Drainage
Well Drained
Plant 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.
Plant Water Budget
Water stress score is 8/10 — consider drought-tolerant varieties and mulching
Tomatillo Planting Timeline — Montezuma County, CO
Tomatillo Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | April 1 | Apr 1 – Apr 15 |
| Transplant Outdoors | June 10 | Jun 10 – Jun 24 |
| Direct Sow | June 3 | Jun 3 – Jun 24 |
| Harvest | August 12 | Aug 12 – Oct 21 |
Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | Start Indoors |
| May | — |
| June | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| July | — |
| August | Harvest |
| September | Harvest |
| October | Harvest |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
Water
Moderate — regular watering
Days to Maturity
60–85 days
Soil pH
6 – 7
USDA Zone
Zone 5b
Growing Season
123 days
Growing Tips for Montezuma County
Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost. Plant at least two plants for cross-pollination. Harvest when fruits fill the husk and it begins to split.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Level Up Your Garden
Tomatillo in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Tomatillo in Montezuma County, CO?
Montezuma County is in Zone 5b with an average last frost of May 27. Plan your Tomatillo planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Montezuma County, CO?
Montezuma County, Colorado is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is May 27 and first fall frost is September 27.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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