Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Carson, IA, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 5b.
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Carson, IA Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for Carson, IA
The average last frost date in spring for Carson is April 28th. For gardeners planting sensitive crops like tomatoes, peppers, and basil, it is generally recommended to wait until May 12th before moving plants outdoors. Waiting these extra few weeks significantly reduces the risk of a late freeze damaging young transplants.
First Fall Frost Date for Carson, IA
The average first frost date in fall for Carson is October 7th. This date marks the approximate end of the growing season for tender plants. Gardeners should plan to harvest frost-sensitive vegetables or provide heavy protection (such as row covers) before this date to avoid crop loss.
Growing Season Length in Carson, IA
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Carson is approximately 162 days. This duration determines which vegetable varieties have enough time to reach maturity before the winter cold sets in. Short-season varieties are recommended for crops that require a longer warm period.
Please note: These dates are climatological averages. Actual weather conditions vary by year. Always check the local 10-day forecast before planting.
Carson, IA Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
Carson, IA Monthly Planting Recommendations
February
In February, recommended activities include starting Begonia seeds indoors (from February 17th to March 3rd), starting French Lavender seeds indoors (from February 17th to March 3rd), and starting Geranium seeds indoors (from February 17th to March 3rd).
March
In March, recommended activities include direct sowing Garden Cress (from March 31st to April 14th), direct sowing Arugula (from March 31st to April 14th), starting Kale seeds indoors (from March 17th to March 31st), and direct sowing Kale (from March 31st to April 14th).
April
In April, recommended activities include direct sowing Babys Breath (from April 28th to May 12th), direct sowing Carrot (from April 7th to April 21st), and direct sowing German Chamomile (from April 14th to April 28th).
May
In May, recommended activities include direct sowing Sesame (from May 12th to May 26th), direct sowing Cantaloupe (from May 5th to May 19th), and direct sowing Zucchini (from May 5th to May 19th).