You can usually expect a frost on any given day in October.
Our first frost is typically around late September or early October, with a 50% chance occurring by September 27th, according to data for The Pinery area, Franktown, and Elizabeth.
Factors Influencing Frost Dates
- Elevation and Microclimates
.Our elevation and terrain can lead to microclimates that differ slightly from larger nearby areas like Denver. - “First Frost” vs. “First Freeze”
A “first frost” can occur when temperatures are slightly above freezing (32°F) but below dew point, while a “first freeze” requires the ground-level temperature to be at or below 32°F for a prolonged period.
More Specific Information
- Old Farmer’s Almanac provides limited information for our area here. The National Gardening Association has more detailed information here.
What this means for gardening
- Warm-Season Plants
You should plan to protect or remove any warm-season plants by late September to avoid frost damage. - Fall Planting (Late July–August for Harvest Before First Frost)
- Lettuce, spinach, arugula (harvest through early October)
- Radishes, turnips, beets, carrots
- Kale, chard (can survive light frost)
Tips for Protecting Crops Near First Frost
- Use row covers, cloches, or cold frames to extend the growing season 1–3 weeks.
- Harvest tender vegetables before frost, or bring containers indoors.
- Mulch around root crops to insulate soil and prolong harvest.