Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Central city, IA, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 5a.
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Central city, IA Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for Central city, IA
The average last frost date in spring for Central city is April 25th. For gardeners planting sensitive crops like tomatoes, peppers, and basil, it is generally recommended to wait until May 9th 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 Central city, IA
The average first frost date in fall for Central city is October 5th. 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 Central city, IA
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Central city is approximately 163 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.
Central city, IA Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
Central city, IA Monthly Planting Recommendations
February
In February, recommended activities include starting Cauliflower seeds indoors (from February 28th to March 14th), starting Snapdragon seeds indoors (from February 14th to February 28th), and starting Onion seeds indoors (from February 14th to February 28th).
March
In March, recommended activities include starting Brussel Sprout seeds indoors (from March 14th to March 28th), starting Basil seeds indoors (from March 14th to March 28th), and direct sowing Radish (from March 28th to April 11th).
April
In April, recommended activities include direct sowing Milk Thistle (from April 11th to April 25th), direct sowing Cilantro (from April 11th to May 9th), and direct sowing Fenugreek (from April 25th to May 9th).
May
In May, recommended activities include direct sowing Zucchini (from May 2nd to May 16th), direct sowing Black Bean (from May 9th to May 23rd), and direct sowing Watermelon (from May 9th to May 23rd).