Colorado’s high elevation means cool nights persist, so planting jicama in early June after the soil has thoroughly warmed is best. The best time to plant jicama in colorado is a critical detail for gardeners aiming to harvest this crunchy root vegetable before the first fall frost. Jicama needs a long, warm growing season, which can be tricky in Colorado’s unpredictable climate. You’ll need to time your planting perfectly to give the tubers enough time to develop.
Jicama is not a common crop in Colorado gardens, but it is possible to grow it with careful planning. The key is understanding that jicama is a tropical plant that hates cold soil and frost. In Colorado, the window for warm weather is shorter than in southern states, so every day counts. This guide will walk you through the exact timing, soil preparation, and care needed to succeed.
Understanding Jicama’s Growing Requirements
Jicama, also known as Mexican yam bean, is a warm-season crop. It requires at least 150 frost-free days to produce sizable tubers. Colorado’s growing season varies by elevation, but most areas have around 100 to 140 frost-free days. This means you must start jicama indoors or use season-extending techniques.
The plant is sensitive to temperature. Soil must be at least 60°F (15°C) for germination, and air temperatures should stay above 50°F (10°C) at night. Colorado’s spring nights often dip below this, so waiting until early June is wise. Even then, you might need row covers or cloches for the first few weeks.
Soil Temperature And Frost Dates
Check your local frost dates before planting. In Denver, the last spring frost is usually around May 5, but the soil may not be warm enough until late May. In higher elevations like Colorado Springs or Boulder, wait until mid-June. Use a soil thermometer to confirm the temperature at a depth of 4 inches.
- Last spring frost: May 5 to June 1, depending on location
- First fall frost: September 15 to October 15
- Minimum soil temp for planting: 60°F
- Ideal soil temp range: 65°F to 75°F
Best Time To Plant Jicama In Colorado
The best time to plant jicama in Colorado is from late May to early June, specifically after the soil has warmed and all frost danger has passed. For most Front Range gardeners, this means planting between June 1 and June 10. If you live in a warmer microclimate like the Arkansas River Valley, you might plant a week earlier. In mountain towns, wait until mid-June.
Starting seeds indoors gives you a head start. Begin seeds 4 to 6 weeks before your planned outdoor planting date. Use biodegradable pots to avoid root disturbance. Jicama has a delicate root system, so transplant carefully.
Indoor Seed Starting Timeline
- Count back 6 weeks from your outdoor planting date (e.g., if planting June 1, start seeds around April 20).
- Sow seeds 1/2 inch deep in seed-starting mix.
- Keep soil temperature at 70°F to 80°F for germination.
- Provide 12 to 16 hours of bright light daily.
- Harden off seedlings for 7 to 10 days before transplanting.
Preparing Your Garden For Jicama
Jicama grows best in loose, well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. Colorado soil is often clay-heavy or sandy, so amend it with compost. Work in 2 to 3 inches of organic matter before planting. This improves drainage and adds nutrients.
Choose a sunny spot that gets at least 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Jicama is a vine that can spread 6 to 10 feet, so give it space. Install a trellis or support system early to keep vines off the ground. This reduces disease risk and makes harvesting easier.
Soil Preparation Steps
- Test soil pH and adjust if needed.
- Remove rocks and weeds from the planting area.
- Mix in aged compost or well-rotted manure.
- Add a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) at planting time.
- Create raised beds if your soil drains poorly.
Planting Jicama Outdoors
Transplant seedlings or direct sow seeds once conditions are right. Space plants 12 to 18 inches apart in rows 3 feet apart. If direct sowing, plant seeds 1 inch deep and thin to the strongest seedling after emergence. Water gently after planting to settle the soil.
Mulch around plants with straw or wood chips to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature. Colorado’s sun can heat soil quickly, but nights stay cool. Mulch helps keep roots warm and prevents weeds.
Watering And Care
Jicama needs consistent moisture, especially during tuber formation. Water deeply once or twice a week, depending on rainfall. Avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal diseases. Drip irrigation is ideal. Reduce watering as harvest approaches to concentrate sugars in the tubers.
Fertilize every 4 weeks with a low-nitrogen fertilizer. Too much nitrogen encourages leaf growth at the expense of tubers. Use a phosphorus-rich fertilizer to promote root development.
Dealing With Colorado’s Challenges
Colorado’s dry climate and intense sun can stress jicama. Provide afternoon shade if temperatures exceed 90°F. Use shade cloth or plant near taller crops. Wind can also damage vines, so plant in a sheltered location or use windbreaks.
Pests are less common for jicama in Colorado, but watch for aphids and spider mites. Hose them off with water or use insecticidal soap. Deer and rabbits usually avoid jicama, but protect young plants with fencing.
Season Extension Techniques
- Use row covers or cold frames to protect from late spring frosts.
- Plant in black plastic mulch to warm soil faster.
- Use cloches or water-filled tepees for individual plants.
- Consider a high tunnel or greenhouse for higher elevations.
Harvesting Jicama In Colorado
Jicama is ready to harvest when the vines begin to die back, usually 150 to 180 days after planting. In Colorado, this often means harvesting in late September or October, just before the first fall frost. The tubers can be left in the ground until frost threatens, but dig them up before soil temperatures drop below 50°F.
To harvest, loosen the soil around the plant with a garden fork. Lift the tubers gently to avoid bruising. Brush off excess soil and store them in a cool, dark place. Jicama stores well for several months at 50°F to 60°F with high humidity.
Signs Of Readiness
- Vines turn yellow and begin to wither.
- Tubers are firm and about 4 to 6 inches in diameter.
- Skin is light brown and slightly rough.
- Days to maturity have passed (check seed packet).
Common Mistakes To Avoid
Many Colorado gardeners plant jicama too early. The soil may feel warm on the surface but still be cold at root depth. Always check soil temperature with a thermometer. Another mistake is not providing enough growing time. If you plant in late June, you might not get mature tubers before frost.
Overwatering is also common. Jicama likes moisture but not soggy soil. Colorado’s clay soils can hold water, leading to root rot. Improve drainage with organic matter and raised beds. Finally, don’t ignore the vines. They need support to grow well and produce larger tubers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I grow jicama in containers in Colorado?
Yes, you can grow jicama in large containers (at least 15 gallons). Use a deep pot with drainage holes and fill with loose potting mix. Place the container in full sun and water regularly. Container plants may need more frequent watering and fertilizing.
How long does jicama take to grow in Colorado?
Jicama typically takes 150 to 180 days from planting to harvest. In Colorado, this means starting seeds indoors and using season extenders to maximize the growing season. Some varieties mature faster, so choose early-maturing types.
What happens if I plant jicama too early?
Planting too early in cold soil can cause seeds to rot or seedlings to die. Even if they survive, growth will be stunted, and tubers may not form properly. Wait until soil is consistently above 60°F before planting.
Do I need to prune jicama vines?
Pruning is not necessary for jicama, but you can trim back excessive vine growth to focus energy on tubers. Remove any dead or diseased leaves to improve air circulation. The vines will naturally die back as harvest approaches.
Can I save jicama seeds for next year?
Yes, you can save seeds from mature jicama pods. Allow the pods to dry on the vine before harvesting. Store seeds in a cool, dry place. Note that jicama is a hybrid, so saved seeds may not produce identical plants.
Final Tips For Success
Growing jicama in Colorado requires patience and attention to detail. Start seeds indoors, monitor soil temperature, and protect plants from cold snaps. With proper timing, you can enjoy fresh jicama from your own garden. Remember that the best time to plant jicama in colorado is early June, but adjust based on your specific location and microclimate.
Experiment with different varieties to find what works best in your area. Some gardeners have success with ‘San Juan’ or ‘Manila’ types. Keep a garden journal to track planting dates and harvest results. Over time, you’ll learn the perfect timing for your garden.
Jicama is a rewarding crop that adds variety to your harvest. Its crisp texture and mild flavor are perfect for salads, slaws, and snacks. With careful planning, you can grow this tropical root vegetable even in Colorado’s challenging climate. Happy planting!