Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Hancock, IA, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 5b.
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Hancock, IA Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for Hancock, IA
The average last frost date in spring for Hancock is April 29th. For gardeners planting sensitive crops like tomatoes, peppers, and basil, it is generally recommended to wait until May 13th 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 Hancock, IA
The average first frost date in fall for Hancock is October 6th. 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 Hancock, IA
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Hancock is approximately 160 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.
Hancock, IA Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
Hancock, IA Monthly Planting Recommendations
February
In February, recommended activities include starting French Lavender seeds indoors (from February 18th to March 4th), starting Begonia seeds indoors (from February 18th to March 4th), and starting Geranium seeds indoors (from February 18th to March 4th).
March
In March, recommended activities include starting Moonflower seeds indoors (from March 18th to April 1st), starting Brussel Sprout seeds indoors (from March 18th to April 1st), and starting Black Eyed Susan seeds indoors (from March 4th to March 18th).
April
In April, recommended activities include direct sowing Fenugreek (from April 29th to May 13th), direct sowing Bok Choy (from April 1st to April 15th), and direct sowing Garden Cress (from April 1st to April 15th).
May
In May, recommended activities include direct sowing Moss Rose (from May 6th to May 20th), direct sowing Pumpkin (from May 6th to May 20th), and direct sowing Butterfly Pea (from May 13th to May 27th).