Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Iowa falls, IA, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 5a.
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Iowa falls, IA Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for Iowa falls, IA
The average last frost date in spring for Iowa falls 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 Iowa falls, IA
The average first frost date in fall for Iowa falls 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 Iowa falls, IA
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Iowa falls 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.
Iowa falls, IA Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
Iowa falls, IA Monthly Planting Recommendations
February
In February, recommended activities include starting French Lavender seeds indoors (from February 20th to March 6th), starting Begonia seeds indoors (from February 20th to March 6th), and starting Celery seeds indoors (from February 20th to March 6th).
March
In March, recommended activities include direct sowing Pea (from March 20th to April 3rd), starting Statice seeds indoors (from March 6th to March 20th), and starting Pepper seeds indoors (from March 6th to March 20th).
April
In April, recommended activities include direct sowing Milk Thistle (from April 17th to May 1st), direct sowing Carrot (from April 10th to April 24th), and direct sowing Sorrel (from April 3rd to April 17th).
May
In May, recommended activities include direct sowing Runner Bean (from May 8th to May 22nd), direct sowing Pumpkin (from May 8th to May 22nd), and direct sowing Okra (from May 15th to May 29th).