It's finally starting to feel like spring here in Gunnison, Colorado and the warmer weather has many of us out sprucing up our yards, planters, and flower beds. Located at a high elevation of 7,703 feet, the climate here in Gunnison presents unique challenges and opportunities for gardening enthusiasts. With our cooler temperatures, shorter growing season, and potential for late spring frosts, timing and plant selection are crucial for a successful garden. Here’s a detailed guide to help you plant outdoor flowers that will thrive in this beautiful mountain town.
When to Plant Your Flowers
1. Wait Until After the Last Frost
- Typical Frost-Free Date: Late May to early June. My Grandmother always said "wait until after Memorial Day". Gunnison’s high elevation means that frost can occur late into spring. Monitoring local weather and soil temperatures is essential.
- Soil Temperature: Ensure the soil has warmed up to at least 50°F (10°C). This usually happens a couple of weeks after the last frost.
2. Summer Planting
- Plant your flowers in late June to early July for the best results. The growing season in Gunnison is pretty short, so make the most of the warm months.
3. Fall Planting
- Consider planting hardy perennials and bulbs in the fall. Late August to early September is ideal for these, allowing them to establish roots before the ground freezes.
The Best Flowers to Plant in Gunnison
Given the unique conditions in Gunnison, choosing the right flowers is key. Opt for hardy, drought-tolerant plants that can handle cool nights and a shorter growing season. For help picking out the best flowers for your yard, the Alpengardener is a great local resource.
1. Perennials
- Columbine (Aquilegia)
- Why: Colorado’s state flower, Columbine, is well-adapted to high elevations. It’s resilient and blooms beautifully in early summer.
- Blanket Flower (Gaillardia)
- Why: This vibrant, drought-tolerant flower can handle the dry, rocky soils of Gunnison and provides a long bloom period.
- Russian Sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia)
- Why: With its silvery foliage and lavender-blue flowers, Russian Sage thrives in dry conditions and offers a stunning display through summer and fall.
2. Annuals
- Marigolds (Tagetes)
- Why: Marigolds are tough and can tolerate the cool nights of Gunnison. They also help deter pests.
- Zinnias (Zinnia elegans)
- Why: These come in a variety of colors and are known for their resilience and long-lasting blooms.
- Petunias (Petunia)
- Why: Petunias are versatile, bright, and can handle cooler temperatures, making them perfect for containers and flower beds.
3. Bulbs
- Daffodils (Narcissus)
- Why: Planting daffodil bulbs in the fall will reward you with cheerful yellow blooms in the spring, even after a harsh winter.
- Tulips (Tulipa)
- Why: Tulips are another excellent choice for fall planting, providing vibrant color in the spring.
4. Ground Covers
- Creeping Phlox (Phlox subulata)
- Why: This ground cover is perfect for adding color and covering rocky areas. It’s hardy and offers a carpet of blooms in spring.
- Ice Plant (Delosperma)
- Why: Known for its drought tolerance, Ice Plant has bright, daisy-like flowers and can handle the Gunnison climate.
Tips for Successful Flower Gardening in Gunnison
1. Prepare the Soil
- Gunnison’s soil can be rocky and less fertile. Add compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil quality and drainage. "Gunnison Gold" compost is a great option for building your soil and promoting healthy plant growth.
2. Mulch
- Use mulch to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature, protecting your plants from extreme temperature fluctuations.
3. Watering
- Despite our cooler temperatures, Gunnison can be dry. Water your plants regularly, especially during dry spells, but be careful not to overwater. Be sure to adhere to your local watering times.
4. Protect from Late Frosts
- Keep an eye on the weather and be ready to cover your plants with frost cloths or blankets if a late frost is forecasted.
5. Choose Native Plants
- Whenever possible, select native plants as they are naturally adapted to the local climate and conditions, requiring less maintenance and being more likely to thrive.
Gardening in the Gunnison High Country presents unique challenges, but with the right timing and plant choices, you can create a vibrant and flourishing outdoor space.
Happy planting!