Question 1

When should I plant basil in ZIP 80012?

Accepted Answer

In ZIP 80012, the main basil target is around May 15, based on the representative Denver frost station and USDA zone 6a.

Question 2

When should I start basil seeds indoors in 80012?

Accepted Answer

Start basil seeds indoors in ZIP 80012 around Mar 31, about 35 days before the May 5 last-frost estimate.

Question 3

When is the last frost in Aurora?

Accepted Answer

Aurora (ZIP 80012) has an average last spring frost around May 5, based on the representative Denver frost station.

Question 4

When is the first frost in Aurora?

Accepted Answer

Aurora (ZIP 80012) has an average first fall frost around Oct 5, leaving about 153 frost-free days.

Question 5

Is this a guaranteed planting date?

Accepted Answer

No. GrowZone uses frost-date estimates, hardiness zones, and crop timing rules for planning. Local microclimates and current weather can shift the right date.

Step	Date	How to use it
Start Indoors	March 31, 2026	Start seeds under lights or in a bright indoor seed-starting space.
Transplant Outdoors	May 15, 2026	Move hardened-off seedlings outside after the frost-risk window.
Direct Sow	May 15, 2026	Sow seed outside when the crop and soil can handle the window.

Start basil seeds indoors around Mar 31

Basil dates for Aurora, CO