Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Rio rancho, NM, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 7b.
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Rio rancho, NM Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for Rio rancho, NM
The average last frost date in spring for Rio rancho is April 28th. For gardeners planting sensitive crops like tomatoes, peppers, and basil, it is generally recommended to wait until May 12th before moving plants outdoors. Waiting these extra few weeks significantly reduces the risk of a late freeze damaging young transplants.
First Fall Frost Date for Rio rancho, NM
The average first frost date in fall for Rio rancho is October 20th. This date marks the approximate end of the growing season for tender plants. Gardeners should plan to harvest frost-sensitive vegetables or provide heavy protection (such as row covers) before this date to avoid crop loss.
Growing Season Length in Rio rancho, NM
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Rio rancho is approximately 175 days. This duration determines which vegetable varieties have enough time to reach maturity before the winter cold sets in. Short-season varieties are recommended for crops that require a longer warm period.
Please note: These dates are climatological averages. Actual weather conditions vary by year. Always check the local 10-day forecast before planting.
Rio rancho, NM Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
Rio rancho, NM Monthly Planting Recommendations
February
In February, recommended activities include starting Celery seeds indoors (from February 17th to March 3rd), starting Geranium seeds indoors (from February 17th to March 3rd), and starting Snapdragon seeds indoors (from February 17th to March 3rd).
March
In March, recommended activities include direct sowing Crimson Clover (from March 31st to April 14th), direct sowing Alfalfa (from March 31st to April 14th), and starting Pepper seeds indoors (from March 3rd to March 17th).
April
In April, recommended activities include direct sowing Lemon Balm (from April 28th to May 12th), direct sowing Fenugreek (from April 28th to May 12th), and direct sowing Lentil (from April 14th to April 28th).
May
In May, recommended activities include direct sowing Lima Bean (from May 12th to May 26th), direct sowing Runner Bean (from May 5th to May 19th), and direct sowing Jute (from May 12th to May 26th).