Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Hastings, IA, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 5b.
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Hastings, IA Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for Hastings, IA
The average last frost date in spring for Hastings is April 27th. For gardeners planting sensitive crops like tomatoes, peppers, and basil, it is generally recommended to wait until May 11th 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 Hastings, IA
The average first frost date in fall for Hastings is October 7th. 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 Hastings, IA
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Hastings 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.
Hastings, IA Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
Hastings, IA Monthly Planting Recommendations
February
In February, recommended activities include starting Onion seeds indoors (from February 16th to March 2nd), starting Lavender seeds indoors (from February 16th to March 2nd), and starting French Lavender seeds indoors (from February 16th to March 2nd).
March
In March, recommended activities include starting Cabbage seeds indoors (from March 2nd to March 16th), direct sowing Potato (from March 30th to April 13th), and direct sowing Poppy (from March 30th to April 13th).
April
In April, recommended activities include direct sowing German Chamomile (from April 13th to April 27th), direct sowing Dill (from April 13th to April 27th), and direct sowing Fennel (from April 13th to April 27th).
May
In May, recommended activities include direct sowing Pumpkin (from May 4th to May 18th), direct sowing Runner Bean (from May 4th to May 18th), and direct sowing Chia (from May 11th to May 25th).