While spring signals the traditional start of gardening season in Colorado, it’s not too late to plant some gorgeous blooms in your garden. Colorado’s weather and high desert climate make for a short growing season of just 157 days, but healthy soil and the right seeds and seedlings can set you up for success. If you missed the spring planting season, don’t worry! Several varieties of plants can still be planted in the summer, yielding beautiful flowers and foliage all season long.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture places the Denver Metro area in Zone 5, meaning some perennials that come back yearly in other Zones are likely to freeze during Colorado winters. The state of Colorado is in Zone 4 to 6 and planting trees, flowers, vegetables, and other plants that are appropriate for our zone will make gardening in the Centennial State less frustrating.
It’s best to wait until the last average freeze date in your area, which is typically April or May in the Front Range. The resort areas can see late spring freezes, and if you’ve lived in Colorado long enough, you know that summer weather is just as unpredictable as winter weather. Spring snowstorms, low humidity, and temperature fluctuations are all things to consider when planning the timing of your planting.
By featuring native plants such as bush sunflowers, bee balm, and yarrow, you’ll know that these plants have adapted to the state’s climate making them some of the best choices. Make sure your garden has adequate drainage as most plants need this to thrive. If your garden doesn’t drain well, keep that in mind when selecting what to plant. Perennials offer a low-maintenance garden that will grow year after year.
Here are some of the best flowers to plant in Colorado for the summer season:
Petunias: In Colorado, petunias are planted as an annual and must be replanted every year because they don’t tolerate frost. Often seen in containers or hanging baskets, petunias need to be watered thoroughly once a week and seek full sun to bloom.
Zinnias: Zinnias come in bold, bright, beautiful colors and make any garden pop. They require full sun and are found in shades of orange, pink, purple, red, and yellow. As a bonus, butterflies are attracted to Zinnias so they are a wonderful addition to your landscape.
Potato Vine: This plant prefers moderately rich soil but can tolerate different pH levels and soil types as long as they are well-draining. Potato Vine does well in all types of light conditions, but six hours of sun per day is optimal.
Marigolds: Must be planted in full sun and have well-drained soil to flourish. Marigolds are substantial flowers that are usually pest resistant if properly cared for.
Plumbago: This shrub can grow up to 10 feet tall and does best in full or partial sun. Plumbago is resistant to most pests making it a hardy choice for your garden.
Living the life you love starts with creating a space you love. Gardening has many health benefits including physical activity, social interaction, and exposure to nature. Plus, as little as 20 minutes of sunlight provides myriad health benefits including improving your mood.
Happy planting!