Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Elkader, IA, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 5a.
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Elkader, IA Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for Elkader, IA
The average last frost date in spring for Elkader 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 Elkader, IA
The average first frost date in fall for Elkader 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 Elkader, IA
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Elkader is approximately 153 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.
Elkader, IA Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
Elkader, IA Monthly Planting Recommendations
February
In February, recommended activities include starting Leek seeds indoors (from February 24th to March 10th), starting Impatiens seeds indoors (from February 24th to March 10th), and starting Celery seeds indoors (from February 24th to March 10th).
March
In March, recommended activities include direct sowing Pea (from March 24th to April 7th), starting Broccoli seeds indoors (from March 10th to March 24th), and starting Oregano seeds indoors (from March 10th to March 24th).
April
In April, recommended activities include direct sowing Radish (from April 7th to April 21st), direct sowing Poppy (from April 7th to April 21st), and direct sowing Carrot (from April 14th to April 28th).
May
In May, recommended activities include direct sowing Runner Bean (from May 12th to May 26th), direct sowing Moss Rose (from May 12th to May 26th), and direct sowing Corn (from May 19th to May 26th).