Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Charlotte, IA, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 5a.
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Charlotte, IA Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for Charlotte, IA
The average last frost date in spring for Charlotte is May 5th. For gardeners planting sensitive crops like tomatoes, peppers, and basil, it is generally recommended to wait until May 19th 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 Charlotte, IA
The average first frost date in fall for Charlotte is October 10th. 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 Charlotte, IA
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Charlotte is approximately 158 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.
Charlotte, IA Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
Charlotte, IA Monthly Planting Recommendations
February
In February, recommended activities include starting Pansy seeds indoors (from February 24th to March 10th), starting Snapdragon seeds indoors (from February 24th to March 10th), and starting Impatiens seeds indoors (from February 24th to March 10th).
March
In March, recommended activities include starting Aubergine seeds indoors (from March 10th to March 24th), starting Thyme seeds indoors (from March 10th to March 24th), and starting Pepper seeds indoors (from March 10th to March 24th).
April
In April, recommended activities include starting Cantaloupe seeds indoors (from April 7th to April 21st), direct sowing Sweet Pea (from April 7th to April 21st), and direct sowing Bok Choy (from April 7th to April 21st).
May
In May, recommended activities include direct sowing Babys Breath (from May 5th to May 19th), direct sowing Black Bean (from May 19th to June 2nd), and direct sowing Cantaloupe (from May 12th to May 26th).