Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Lucas, IA, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 5b.
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Lucas, IA Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for Lucas, IA
The average last frost date in spring for Lucas is April 28th. For gardeners planting sensitive crops like tomatoes, peppers, and basil, it is generally recommended to wait until May 12th 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 Lucas, IA
The average first frost date in fall for Lucas is October 8th. 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 Lucas, IA
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Lucas 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.
Lucas, IA Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
Lucas, IA Monthly Planting Recommendations
February
In February, recommended activities include starting Begonia seeds indoors (from February 17th to March 3rd), starting Pansy seeds indoors (from February 17th to March 3rd), and starting Snapdragon seeds indoors (from February 17th to March 3rd).
March
In March, recommended activities include starting Brussel Sprout seeds indoors (from March 17th to March 31st), direct sowing Garden Cress (from March 31st to April 14th), and starting Marigold seeds indoors (from March 17th to March 31st).
April
In April, recommended activities include direct sowing Fennel (from April 14th to April 28th), direct sowing Carrot (from April 7th to April 21st), and direct sowing Dill (from April 14th to April 28th).
May
In May, recommended activities include direct sowing Cucumber (from May 5th to May 19th), direct sowing Runner Bean (from May 5th to May 19th), and direct sowing Pumpkin (from May 5th to May 19th).