Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Oxford, IA, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 5b.
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Oxford, IA Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for Oxford, IA
The average last frost date in spring for Oxford 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 Oxford, IA
The average first frost date in fall for Oxford is October 10th. 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 Oxford, IA
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Oxford is approximately 165 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.
Oxford, IA Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
Oxford, IA Monthly Planting Recommendations
February
In February, recommended activities include starting Snapdragon seeds indoors (from February 17th to March 3rd), starting Impatiens seeds indoors (from February 17th to March 3rd), and starting Geranium seeds indoors (from February 17th to March 3rd).
March
In March, recommended activities include starting Coleus seeds indoors (from March 3rd to March 17th), starting Kale seeds indoors (from March 17th to March 31st), direct sowing Kale (from March 31st to April 14th), and starting Black Eyed Susan seeds indoors (from March 3rd to March 17th).
April
In April, recommended activities include direct sowing Alyssum (from April 14th to April 28th), starting Pumpkin seeds indoors (from April 7th to April 14th), and direct sowing Hyssop (from April 14th to April 28th).
May
In May, recommended activities include direct sowing Butterfly Pea (from May 12th to May 26th), direct sowing Black Bean (from May 12th to May 26th), and direct sowing Melon (from May 12th to May 26th).