Spring is just around the corner, and for gardening enthusiasts in Fort Collins, Colorado, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and embrace the blooming season.

As the snow melts away and temperatures begin to rise, it’s the perfect time to start planning and preparing your garden for the months ahead. In this article, we’ll explore some essential spring gardening tips for residents of Sonders and Fort Collins.

Understanding USDA Plant Hardiness Zone 5b

Nestled at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, Fort Collins falls almost entirely within USDA Plant Hardiness Zone 5b. 

Plant Hardiness Zones are designated according to the average annual minimum winter temperature range. Because of climate change and changing weather patterns, the USDA released an updated map just last year in 2023. When compared to the previous map from 30 years ago, it’s clear that about half of the country moved into a slightly warmer zone. 

In the 2012 map, Fort Collins is exclusively located in Plant Hardiness Zone 5b. This means the average maximum low temperatures are between -15 degrees F and -10 degree F. In the newer map, small parts of Fort Collins (mostly in the southwest, near Horsetooth Reservoir) have moved into the warmer Zone 6a, with maximum low temps between -10 degrees F and -5 degrees F.

For most Fort Collins residents, including those living at Sonders Fort Collins, following the guidance for Plant Hardiness Zone 5b will yield the best gardening results. If you think your home might be in a different hardiness zone, check the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map, which allows you to plug in your zip code to find out your zone.

Spring Gardening Tips for Fort Collins

Here are some tips to ensure your new home’s garden thrives in Zone 5b this season: 

1. A Good Foundation: Prepare Your Soil. Before anything else, assess your soil’s condition. Fort Collins soil can vary, but many areas benefit from amending with organic matter like compost to improve fertility and drainage. Spring is an excellent time for soil testing to determine nutrient levels and pH, allowing you to tailor your fertilization approach accordingly.
2. Starting From Seed? Start Seeds Indoors. For plants that require a longer growing season, such as tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants, consider starting seeds indoors. This gives them a head start before transplanting them into the garden once the risk of frost has passed, typically around mid to late May in Fort Collins.
3. Protect Against Late Frosts. Surprise frosts can ruin a garden overnight. Keep an eye on weather forecasts and be prepared to protect tender plants with frost blankets or row covers if necessary.
4. Choose Your Plants Wisely. Opt for plants that thrive in Zone 5b’s conditions. These include cold-hardy vegetables like lettuce, spinach, kale, and peas, which can be directly sown into the garden as soon as the soil can be worked in early spring.
5. Conserve by Using Mulch. Once the soil has warmed up, apply a layer of mulch around your plants to conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and moderate soil temperatures. Organic mulches like shredded leaves or straw work well and also contribute to soil health as they decompose.
6. Water Wisely. Spring in Fort Collins can be variable, with periods of rain interspersed with dry spells. Monitor soil moisture levels and water accordingly, aiming for consistent moisture without overwatering, which can lead to root rot. It’s also crucial to be conscious about water usage, a major tenant for Sonders Fort Collins residents and Colorado as a whole. Read more about our Water Wise Irrigation System in this blog.

Best Vegetable & Herb Plants for Zone 5b in Fort Collins, Colorado

Not sure what you want to plant this year? Keep your fridge stocked with essentials while enjoying a rotating bevy of super-fresh veggies and herbs from your backyard. 

Here’s a list of some of the best vegetable and herb plants for Fort Collins’ gardening Zone 5b. 

If you’re starting from seed, all of these plants should be started indoors and/or planted outside after the last frost date: 

• Tomatoes
• Peppers
• Squash
• Cucumbers
• Beans 
• Basil
• Parsley
• Chives
• Thyme
• Mint 
• Marigolds
• Zinnias 
• Cosmos
• Nasturtiums
• Echinacea

By selecting plants well-suited to Fort Collins’ Gardening Zone 5b and following these spring gardening tips, you’ll be well on your way to a thriving garden that flourishes throughout the growing season. Embrace the beauty of spring and enjoy the fruits of your labor as your garden bursts into life.

Happy gardening, Fort Collins!