Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Iowa, LA, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 9a.
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Iowa, LA Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for Iowa, LA
The average last frost date in spring for Iowa is February 18th. For gardeners planting sensitive crops like tomatoes, peppers, and basil, it is generally recommended to wait until March 4th 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 Iowa, LA
The average first frost date in fall for Iowa is November 20th. 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 Iowa, LA
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Iowa is approximately 275 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.
Iowa, LA Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
Iowa, LA Monthly Planting Recommendations
January
In January, recommended activities include direct sowing Parsley (from January 21st to February 4th), direct sowing Sorrel (from January 21st to February 4th), and direct sowing California Poppy (from January 21st to February 4th).
February
In February, recommended activities include direct sowing Butternut Squash (from February 25th to March 11th), direct sowing Swiss Chard (from February 4th to February 18th), and direct sowing Sunflower (from February 25th to March 11th).
March
In March, recommended activities include direct sowing Chia (from March 4th to March 18th), direct sowing Okra (from March 4th to March 18th), and direct sowing Lima Bean (from March 4th to March 18th).
December
In December, recommended activities include starting Celery seeds indoors (from December 10th to December 24th), starting Cauliflower seeds indoors (from December 24th to January 7th), and starting Broccoli seeds indoors (from December 24th to January 7th).