Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Wilton, IA, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 5b.
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Wilton, IA Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for Wilton, IA
The average last frost date in spring for Wilton is April 25th. For gardeners planting sensitive crops like tomatoes, peppers, and basil, it is generally recommended to wait until May 9th 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 Wilton, IA
The average first frost date in fall for Wilton 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 Wilton, IA
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Wilton is approximately 173 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.
Wilton, IA Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
Wilton, IA Monthly Planting Recommendations
February
In February, recommended activities include starting Leek seeds indoors (from February 14th to February 28th), starting Tomatillo seeds indoors (from February 28th to March 14th), and starting Pepper seeds indoors (from February 28th to March 14th).
March
In March, recommended activities include direct sowing Spinach (from March 14th to March 28th), direct sowing Chives (from March 28th to April 11th), and direct sowing Lettuce (from March 28th to April 11th).
April
In April, recommended activities include direct sowing Fennel (from April 11th to April 25th), direct sowing Carrot (from April 4th to April 18th), and direct sowing Milk Thistle (from April 11th to April 25th).
May
In May, recommended activities include direct sowing Black Bean (from May 9th to May 23rd), direct sowing Butternut Squash (from May 2nd to May 16th), and direct sowing Melon (from May 9th to May 23rd).