Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Dike, IA, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 5a.
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Dike, IA Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for Dike, IA
The average last frost date in spring for Dike is May 1st. For gardeners planting sensitive crops like tomatoes, peppers, and basil, it is generally recommended to wait until May 15th 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 Dike, IA
The average first frost date in fall for Dike 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 Dike, IA
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Dike is approximately 157 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.
Dike, IA Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
Dike, IA Monthly Planting Recommendations
February
In February, recommended activities include starting Impatiens seeds indoors (from February 20th to March 6th), starting Leek seeds indoors (from February 20th to March 6th), and starting Petunia seeds indoors (from February 20th to March 6th).
March
In March, recommended activities include starting Aubergine seeds indoors (from March 6th to March 20th), direct sowing Spinach (from March 20th to April 3rd), and starting Coleus seeds indoors (from March 6th to March 20th).
April
In April, recommended activities include direct sowing Cilantro (from April 17th to May 15th), direct sowing Kale (from April 3rd to April 17th), and direct sowing California Poppy (from April 3rd to April 17th).
May
In May, recommended activities include direct sowing Butterfly Pea (from May 15th to May 29th), direct sowing Butternut Squash (from May 8th to May 22nd), and direct sowing Okra (from May 15th to May 29th).