When to Plant Nasturtiums in New Mexico
Edible flowers that double as pest traps. Plant near vegetables to lure aphids away from your food crops.
The Short Answer
New Mexico Frost Dates
Your planting dates depend on which part of New Mexico you're in. Here are the frost date ranges by region:
| Region | Zones | Last Frost (Spring) | First Frost (Fall) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Northern New Mexico | 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b | May 5 - May 25 | Sep 15 - Oct 5 |
| Central New Mexico (Albuquerque) | 7a, 7b | Apr 1 - Apr 20 | Oct 15 - Nov 5 |
| Southern New Mexico | 7b, 8a, 8b | Mar 15 - Apr 5 | Oct 25 - Nov 15 |
Nasturtiums Planting Schedule for New Mexico
Northern New Mexico (Zones 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b)
Average last frost: May 5 - May 25 · Average first frost: Sep 15 - Oct 5
Central New Mexico (Albuquerque) (Zones 7a, 7b)
Average last frost: Apr 1 - Apr 20 · Average first frost: Oct 15 - Nov 5
Southern New Mexico (Zones 7b, 8a, 8b)
Average last frost: Mar 15 - Apr 5 · Average first frost: Oct 25 - Nov 15
Growing Nasturtiums in New Mexico
Nasturtiums in New Mexico's Climate
Nasturtiums grow only during the coolest months — sow from October through February. Summer heat ends the season quickly. In south Florida, the growing window may be only 3-4 months. The edible flowers and leaves add peppery flavor to winter salads.
Soil Considerations for New Mexico
Alkaline desert soils. Low organic matter. Caliche layers common. Heavy amendment with compost essential. Make sure soil has warmed to at least 55°F before planting nasturtiums outside.
New Mexico Climate & Growing Season
High desert climate. Intense sun. Low humidity. Wide temperature swings day to night. Irrigation essential. Nasturtiums cannot tolerate any frost, so wait until all frost danger has passed before transplanting outside. Watch local forecasts carefully in spring.
Growing season length varies across New Mexico: Northern New Mexico (4a, 4b, 5a, 5b) has a last frost around May 5 - May 25, while Southern New Mexico (7b, 8a, 8b) sees frost end around Mar 15 - Apr 5. This difference matters for nasturtiums — transplant timing shifts by several weeks across the state.
Growing Tips
Both flowers and young leaves are edible with a peppery taste. Thrives in poor soil — too much nitrogen means all leaves, no flowers.
Companion Planting
Plant nasturtiums alongside these companions for better growth:
The Bottom Line
Last reviewed: March 29, 2026