Colorado’s high elevation requires waiting until late May or early June for morning glory planting. Knowing the best time to plant morning glory in Colorado is essential for vibrant blooms that last through the short growing season. Morning glories thrive in warm soil and full sun, but our unpredictable spring frosts and cool nights demand careful timing.
Many gardeners make the mistake of planting too early, only to see their seedlings wither. The key is to wait until the soil temperature reaches at least 60°F and all danger of frost has passed. This typically happens after Mother’s Day in lower elevations, but higher areas may need to wait until mid-June.
Let’s break down exactly when and how to plant morning glories in Colorado for the best results. You’ll get practical steps, regional tips, and answers to common questions.
Best Time To Plant Morning Glory In Colorado
The absolute best window is from late May through early June. This timing aligns with Colorado’s warming trend and gives your seeds the heat they need to germinate quickly. Planting during this period also helps avoid the late spring snowstorms that can surprise us.
If you live in Denver or along the Front Range, aim for the last week of May. Gardeners in the mountains or high plains should wait until the first week of June. Always check your local frost dates before planting.
Here are the key factors that determine the perfect planting time:
- Soil temperature: Must be at least 60°F at a depth of 2 inches
- Last frost date: Wait 1-2 weeks after the average last frost
- Nighttime temperatures: Consistently above 50°F
- Daytime highs: Ideally 70-80°F for strong growth
Why Timing Matters So Much In Colorado
Colorado’s climate is unique. We have intense sun, dry air, and dramatic temperature swings. Morning glories are heat-loving annuals that origionate from tropical regions. They simply cannot handle cold soil or frost.
Planting too early leads to seed rot or stunted growth. Planting too late means your vines may not have enough time to bloom before the first fall frost. The sweet spot gives you about 90-100 days of growing season, which is plenty for morning glories to flower.
Another issue is our low humidity. Morning glories need consistent moisture to establish. If you plant during a dry spell in late May, you’ll need to water daily until the seedlings are strong.
Regional Variations Across Colorado
Colorado is not one-size-fits-all for gardening. The best time to plant morning glory in Colorado depends on your specific location. Here’s a quick guide by region:
- Denver Metro (5,280 ft): Late May to early June
- Colorado Springs (6,035 ft): Late May to mid-June
- Boulder (5,430 ft): Late May to early June
- Fort Collins (5,005 ft): Late May to early June
- Pueblo (4,692 ft): Mid to late May
- Grand Junction (4,593 ft): Mid May
- Durango (6,512 ft): Early to mid June
- Leadville (10,152 ft): Mid to late June
Higher elevations have shorter growing seasons. You might need to start seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before transplanting. This gives you a head start and ensures blooms before September frosts.
How To Plant Morning Glories For Success
Once you’ve determined the best time to plant morning glory in Colorado, follow these steps for healthy vines. Morning glories are easy to grow, but they do have specific needs.
Step 1: Prepare Your Soil
Morning glories prefer well-draining soil. Colorado’s clay-heavy soil can hold too much moisture, leading to root rot. Amend your planting area with compost or aged manure to improve drainage and add nutrients.
Test your soil pH if possible. Morning glories like a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. Our soil tends to be alkaline, so you may need to add sulfur or peat moss to lower the pH slightly.
Step 2: Choose The Right Location
Full sun is non-negotiable. Morning glories need at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. In Colorado’s high altitude, the sun is intense, so afternoon shade is actually beneficial in very hot areas like the Western Slope.
Provide a sturdy trellis, fence, or arbor for the vines to climb. They can reach 10-15 feet in a single season. Make sure the support is in place before planting to avoid disturbing roots later.
Step 3: Plant Seeds Correctly
Morning glory seeds have hard coats. Nick the seed with a file or soak them in warm water for 24 hours before planting. This speeds up germination significantly.
Plant seeds 1/2 inch deep and 6 inches apart. Water gently after planting. Keep the soil moist but not soggy until seedlings emerge, which takes 5-14 days depending on temperature.
Step 4: Water Wisely
Colorado’s dry climate means you’ll need to water regularly. Morning glories are somewhat drought-tolerant once established, but they bloom best with consistent moisture. Water deeply 2-3 times per week, more often during heat waves.
Avoid overhead watering late in the day. Wet foliage overnight can lead to fungal diseases. Use drip irrigation or water at the base of the plants.
Step 5: Fertilize Lightly
Morning glories don’t need heavy feeding. Too much nitrogen encourages lush leaves but few flowers. Use a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Compost tea or a 5-10-10 fertilizer works well. Apply when plants are 6 inches tall and again when they start to bloom.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
Even experienced Colorado gardeners make errors with morning glories. Here are the most frequent problems and how to avoid them:
- Planting too early: Wait for warm soil and stable nights
- Overwatering: Soggy soil causes root rot, especially in clay
- Underwatering: Dry soil stresses plants and reduces blooms
- Too much shade: Fewer flowers and leggy growth
- Not providing support: Vines will sprawl and get tangled
- Ignoring frost warnings: Cover plants if a late freeze is predicted
Dealing With Colorado’s Weather Extremes
Our weather can change in an hour. A warm May day can turn into a snowy night. Always keep row covers or old sheets handy to protect young plants from unexpected frost.
Hail is another concern. Morning glory vines are delicate and can be shredded by hail. If hail is forecast, cover plants with buckets or floating row covers. They usually recover quickly if the stems are intact.
Wind can also damage vines. Plant near a windbreak or use stakes to guide young plants. Once established, morning glories are surprisingly wind-tolerant.
Indoor Starting For Short Seasons
If you live in the mountains or want an earlier start, begin seeds indoors. This is especially useful for areas where the best time to plant morning glory in Colorado is mid-June or later.
Start seeds 4-6 weeks before your planned transplant date. Use biodegradable pots to minimize root disturbance. Morning glories have taproots that don’t like being disturbed.
Harden off seedlings gradually over 7-10 days before moving them outside. Expose them to outdoor conditions for increasing amounts of time each day. This reduces transplant shock.
Transplanting Tips
Transplant on a cloudy day or in the evening to reduce stress. Water thoroughly before and after transplanting. Space plants 12 inches apart for good air circulation.
Add a layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture and keep roots cool. Colorado’s sun can heat soil quickly, so mulch is very helpful.
Maximizing Blooms All Season
Morning glories bloom from mid-summer until the first fall frost. To keep flowers coming, follow these care tips:
- Deadhead spent blooms regularly to encourage more flowers
- Water consistently, especially during dry spells
- Fertilize lightly every 4-6 weeks
- Watch for pests like aphids and spider mites
- Provide afternoon shade in very hot areas
Dealing With Pests And Diseases
Colorado’s dry climate reduces many fungal diseases, but pests can still be an issue. Aphids are common on new growth. Spray them off with a strong stream of water or use insecticidal soap.
Spider mites thrive in hot, dry conditions. Keep plants well-watered and mist the foliage occasionally to deter them. If infestations occur, neem oil works well.
Powdery mildew can appear in humid conditions or if plants are crowded. Space vines properly and avoid overhead watering. Remove affected leaves promptly.
Harvesting Seeds For Next Year
Morning glories produce many seeds. You can collect them for next season’s planting. This saves money and ensures you have seeds adapted to your local conditions.
Allow seed pods to turn brown and dry on the vine. Harvest before they split open and scatter seeds. Store in a cool, dry place in a paper envelope.
Label with the variety and year. Morning glory seeds remain viable for 2-3 years if stored properly. You can also let some seeds fall naturally for self-sowing next year.
Self-Sowing In Colorado Gardens
Morning glories can self-sow in mild winters. In Colorado, seeds often survive the cold if they’re buried under mulch or snow. You may get volunteer seedlings in spring.
Be cautious, though. Morning glories can become invasive in some areas. Deadhead most flowers to control spread, but leave a few for self-sowing if you want natural reseeding.
Varieties That Perform Best In Colorado
Not all morning glory varieties are equal in our climate. Some handle cool nights and intense sun better than others. Here are top picks for Colorado:
- ‘Heavenly Blue’: Classic sky-blue flowers, very reliable
- ‘Grandpa Ott’s’: Deep purple with a red star, heirloom variety
- ‘Scarlet O’Hara’: Bright red blooms, heat-tolerant
- ‘Pearly Gates’: White flowers that glow in moonlight
- ‘Flying Saucers’: Blue and white striped, unique
These varieties have proven themselves in Colorado gardens. They germinate well in our soil and bloom profusely even with our temperature swings.
Where To Buy Seeds Locally
Check local nurseries and garden centers for seeds adapted to Colorado. Big-box stores often carry generic varieties that may not perform as well. Local seed companies like Botanical Interests (based in Colorado) offer excellent options.
Online retailers also carry a wide selection. Order early, as popular varieties sell out quickly in spring. You can also trade seeds with fellow gardeners through local gardening groups.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I plant morning glory seeds directly in the ground in Colorado?
Yes, direct sowing works well if you wait until soil is warm. Late May to early June is ideal for most areas. Soak seeds overnight first to speed germination.
How long does it take for morning glories to bloom in Colorado?
From seed, expect blooms in 60-90 days. Starting indoors can shorten this time. Once blooming begins, flowers continue until frost.
Will morning glories come back every year in Colorado?
They are annuals here and won’t survive winter. However, they self-sow readily, so you may get new plants from dropped seeds the following year.
What is the best time of day to plant morning glory seeds?
Plant in the late afternoon or early evening. This gives seeds overnight to absorb moisture before the intense daytime sun hits.
Can I grow morning glories in containers in Colorado?
Yes, containers work well. Use large pots with drainage holes and quality potting mix. Water more frequently since containers dry out fast in our climate.
Final Tips For Success
Planting at the best time to plant morning glory in Colorado is your first step toward a stunning display. Combine proper timing with good soil, full sun, and consistent care for the best results.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different varieties and locations. Morning glories are forgiving plants that reward you with daily blooms. Their flowers open in the morning and close by afternoon, creating a living clock in your garden.
Enjoy the process. Gardening in Colorado has its challenges, but the payoff is worth it. Your morning glories will attract pollinators and bring color to your landscape from July through September.
Remember to check your local frost dates each year. Climate patterns shift, and what worked last year might need adjustment. Stay flexible and watch the weather forecast during planting season.
With these tips, you’ll have healthy, blooming morning glories that make your Colorado garden the envy of the neighborhood. Happy planting