When to Plant in Arvada, CO

In Arvada, the gardening season is framed by the median last spring frost date of May 4 and the median first fall frost date of October 2, giving gardeners approximately 151 frost-free days to work with. This relatively short growing season demands careful planning and selection of crops that can thrive within these parameters.

The microclimate in Arvada falls under the continental mountain category, characterized by cold nights and intense sun during the day. This climate is ideal for growing heat-loving crops like tomatoes, peppers, and squash, which require ample sunlight and warmth to flourish. Conversely, leafy greens like spinach and lettuce may struggle during the hotter months due to bolting triggered by excessive heat, while crops requiring a shorter growing season can also be hampered by the sudden temperature drops at night.

What to plant now in Arvada

Spring: In early spring, start indoor seeds for tomatoes and peppers; transplant them after the last frost date of May 4. Peas and lettuce can be directly sown in early April as they tolerate cooler temperatures.
Summer: Focus on nurturing your summer crops like tomatoes and peppers through the warm months. Continuously sow fast-growing varieties like greens every few weeks to ensure a steady harvest throughout July and August.
Fall: As October approaches, harvest remaining summer crops and plant hardier vegetables like kale and carrots that can withstand light frosts before the expected fall frost on October 2.
Winter: Utilize the winter months for planning your spring garden. Consider cold frames or greenhouses if you wish to start seedlings indoors, or research and order seeds in preparation for the upcoming growing season.

In Arvada (151 frost-free days, a moderate season), 34 of 56 planner crops fit outright, 21 get two plantings, 1 crop is perennial.

Month by month in Arvada

Month	What to do
January	January is a great time to plan your garden layout and order seeds. Research your favorite crops that thrive in the continental mountain climate and decide what to grow for the upcoming spring.
February	With February's arrival, gather materials for your garden beds. If you have a greenhouse, start early seedlings of broccoli and peppers, but be cautious of late frosts.
March	March offers a chance to prepare your soil. As ground begins to thaw, focus on adding compost or fertilizers, which will enhance soil fertility for planting after May 4.
April	April is crucial for planting outdoors. With the last frost approaching (May 4), sow cool-season crops like peas and spinach directly into your garden and prepare for spring warmer options.
May	As May arrives, any risk of frost should be avoided after May 4. Transplant your tomatoes, peppers, and summer squash, ensuring they are well-watered to establish roots in the warming soil.
June	June brings lush growth; maintain moisture levels for your thriving crops. Regularly check for pests, and begin planting successive crops of beans and summer squash to keep the harvest coming.
July	In July, continue to nurture your crops. Consider interplanting quick-maturing greens between your established rows, which can take advantage of the summer sun while leaving space for your larger vegetables.
August	August is a time for harvesting and fall preparation. Begin planting late-season crops like kale and carrots, ensuring you maximize the remaining frost-free days before cooler weather sets in.
September	As September nears its end, focus on harvesting remaining summer crops while tucking in any new beds with cool-weather crops that can survive light frosts as the weather starts to change.
October	October is vital, with the first fall frost arriving on October 2. Remember to cover sensitive crops at night as temperatures drop, while also enjoying the bounty of your harvest.
November	By November, most outdoor gardening comes to a halt. Gather your garden tools for cleaning and store them away, while you plan for winter and next year's plantings.
December	In December, while snow may blanket your garden, turn your thoughts to future planting plans. Review which crops worked well last season and consider experimenting with new varieties come spring.

Frost dates for Arvada ZIP codes

ZIP	Last spring frost (50%)	First fall frost (50%)	Zone
80003	May 4	October 2	6a
80005	May 4	October 2	6a
80002	May 4	October 2	6a
80007	May 9	October 1	6a

FAQ

When is the last frost in Arvada?

The last frost date in Arvada typically occurs around May 4, marking a critical point for planning your spring plantings.

What vegetables grow best in Arvada?

Tomatoes, peppers, and squash thrive well in Arvada's climate due to the abundant sunlight and warmth they enjoy throughout the growing season.

When should I plant tomatoes in Arvada?

You should plant tomatoes after the last frost date of May 4 to ensure they grow successfully without the risk of frost damage.

Can I garden year-round in Arvada?

Gardening in Arvada is mostly seasonal, but with the right techniques like greenhouse planting, you can extend your garden's productivity year-round.

How does Plan My Garden help Arvada gardeners?

Plan My Garden provides tailored planting calendars, detailed crop selection advice, and gardening tips specific to Arvada's unique frost dates and climate conditions.