To 10 no-fail veggies to plant

Growing vegetables in Colorado can be easier said than done. Here are our top recommendations for success.

Colorado's unique climate and elevation present challenges for vegetable gardening, but there are many vegetables that do perform well and are relatively easy to grow.

Here are some "no-fail" vegetables to consider for your Colorado garden:

1. Root Vegetables: Carrots, beets, and radishes thrive in Colorado's well-draining soil and cooler temperatures. They are generally easy to grow and require minimal maintenance once established. Consider varieties adapted to shorter growing seasons for best results (50 - 80 days).
   
   
2. Leafy Greens: Lettuce, spinach, kale, and Swiss chard are well-suited to our climate. They can be grown as both cool-season and cold-hardy crops, making them ideal for spring and fall planting. These vegetables are also relatively quick to mature, allowing for multiple harvests throughout the season.
   
   
3. Peas: Peas are cool-season vegetables that tolerate Colorado's fluctuating spring temperatures well. They can be planted early in the season, as soon as the soil can be worked, and typically produce a bountiful crop before the summer heat sets in. Consider both shelling peas and snap peas for variety. If a big storm or hard frost is predicted, protect your peas with a layer of pine needles or other covering.
   
   
4. Beans: Both bush and pole beans are reliable producers in Colorado gardens. They like warm temps and well-drained soil, making them well-suited to our summer conditions. Beans are easy to grow and low-maintenance.
   
   
5. Tomatoes: Tomatoes can be challenging to grow in Colorado's short growing season, so choose short-season or 'determinate' varieties. Planting tomatoes in containers or raised beds with ample sunlight and consistent watering can also help extend the growing season.
   
   
6. Peppers: Peppers, both sweet and hot varieties, thrive in Colorado's warm, sunny summers. Peppers appreciate well-drained soil and benefit from regular fertilization throughout the growing season.
   
   
7. Herbs: Many herbs are well-adapted to Colorado's climate and can be grown successfully in both garden beds and containers. Herbs are low-maintenance and provide a flavorful addition to home-cooked meals, and they attract beneficial insects to the garden.
   

When selecting vegetables for your Colorado garden, be sure to consider factors such as soil quality, sunlight exposure, and water availability. Choosing varieties specifically bred for short growing seasons or cold tolerance can help increase your chances of success.