Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Oakville, IA, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 5b.
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Oakville, IA Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for Oakville, IA
The average last frost date in spring for Oakville is April 23rd. For gardeners planting sensitive crops like tomatoes, peppers, and basil, it is generally recommended to wait until May 7th 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 Oakville, IA
The average first frost date in fall for Oakville is October 15th. 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 Oakville, IA
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Oakville is approximately 175 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.
Oakville, IA Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
Oakville, IA Monthly Planting Recommendations
February
In February, recommended activities include starting Begonia seeds indoors (from February 12th to February 26th), starting Impatiens seeds indoors (from February 12th to February 26th), and starting Cabbage seeds indoors (from February 26th to March 12th).
March
In March, recommended activities include direct sowing Potato (from March 26th to April 9th), starting Basil seeds indoors (from March 12th to March 26th), and direct sowing Arugula (from March 26th to April 9th).
April
In April, recommended activities include direct sowing Swiss Chard (from April 9th to April 23rd), direct sowing Butternut Squash (from April 30th to May 14th), and direct sowing Cosmos (from April 30th to May 7th).
May
In May, recommended activities include direct sowing Okra (from May 7th to May 21st), direct sowing Lima Bean (from May 7th to May 21st), and direct sowing Sesame (from May 7th to May 21st).