Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Melrose, IA, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 5b.
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Melrose, IA Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for Melrose, IA
The average last frost date in spring for Melrose 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 Melrose, IA
The average first frost date in fall for Melrose 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 Melrose, IA
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Melrose 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.
Melrose, IA Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
Melrose, IA Monthly Planting Recommendations
February
In February, recommended activities include starting Impatiens seeds indoors (from February 16th to March 2nd), starting Snapdragon seeds indoors (from February 16th to March 2nd), and starting Petunia seeds indoors (from February 16th to March 2nd).
March
In March, recommended activities include starting Black Eyed Susan seeds indoors (from March 2nd to March 16th), direct sowing Chervil (from March 30th to April 13th), and starting Ground Cherry seeds indoors (from March 2nd to March 16th).
April
In April, recommended activities include direct sowing Fennel (from April 13th to April 27th), direct sowing Beet (from April 13th to April 27th), and direct sowing Lemon Balm (from April 27th to May 11th).
May
In May, recommended activities include direct sowing Morning Glory (from May 4th to May 18th), direct sowing Cantaloupe (from May 4th to May 18th), and direct sowing Okra (from May 11th to May 25th).