Colorado’s dry, sunny climate can be tough on vegetable gardens. Here’s how to help yours thrive

If you decided to plant a vegetable garden earlier this spring, you’re probably already enjoying some of those home-grown tomatoes, zucchini, or peppers.   On the other hand, you may have decided that the potential benefits of growing your own food just aren’t worth the effort.  Colorado’s intense climate, elevation and scarce rainfall make vegetable gardening a challenge. But there’s hope. Cassey Anderson is a horticulture specialist with Colorado State University Extension whose mission is to help new gardeners succeed. She joined Erin O’Toole to discuss how to help vegetables thrive.  CSU Extension has a number of helpful resources for gardeners, including a seasonal planting tip sheet and this vegetable garden guide. You can also find tips on how to deal with plant diseases and insects. * * * * * KUNC is holding its first-ever emergency fundraiser because Congress recently clawed back public broadcasting funds. That’s funding we rely on to cover local news, report on critical issues, and bring you conversations with Coloradans on In The NoCo. You value this journalism. You know it matters. Help keep it strong. Go to KUNC.org/donate and make a gift today. And thank you.* * * * * Sign up for the In The NoCo newsletter: Visit KUNC.org Questions? Feedback? Story ideas? Email us: [email protected] Like what you're hearing? Help more people discover In The NoCo by rating the show on your favorite podcast app. Thanks!  Host and Producer: Erin O'Toole Producer: Ariel Lavery Executive Producer: Brad Turner  Theme music by Robbie Reverb Additional music by Blue Dot Sessions In The NoCo is a production of KUNC News and Community Radio for Northern Colorado.