Spring is here, but Colorado farmers remain cautious

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KKTV) -Spring is officially here, but in Colorado Springs, that doesn’t always mean warm weather ahead. Sunshine can quickly turn to snow, making it tricky for farmers to plan the growing season.

Aaron DeGioia, owner of Soil and Ecological Solutions, says patience is key. He advises farmers to avoid planting too early to prevent frost damage, but waiting too long could mean a smaller harvest.

“Getting out there too early, starting to get your ground ready, and then a snow or rain comes; you’re just delayed,” DeGioia said.

Wheat and small grains are starting to green up as soil warms and daylight lasts longer. In some parts of the state, farmers are preparing to plant corn and melons, which need consistent warmth and moisture to grow.

“Weeds start to grow, and now you have to restart. Or worse, your plants start to come up, then a light frost kills them off, and you have to start over,” said DeGioia.

For home gardeners, DeGioia recommends waiting until after May 1 to avoid frost damage. He says cool-weather crops like grasses, celery, broccoli, and wheat can handle light freezes, but warmer crops need more stable conditions.

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