Planting Dates for Iowa
Iowa's deep, rich prairie topsoil is legendary — some of the most fertile soil on Earth. The state's continental climate brings warm summers ideal for growing, with adequate rainfall for most crops.
USDA Zones 4b-5b • 140-170 frost-free days depending on location
Frost Dates in Iowa
Average last spring frost and first fall frost dates for Iowa cities. Use these to calculate your planting windows.
| City | Last Spring Frost | First Fall Frost | Frost-Free Days | USDA Zone |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Des Moines | Apr 22 | Oct 11 | 172 | 5b |
| Cedar Rapids | Apr 26 | Oct 8 | 165 | 5a |
| Sioux City | Apr 28 | Oct 5 | 160 | 5a |
Gardening Tips for Iowa
- ✓Iowa's deep topsoil is among the richest in the world for vegetable production.
- ✓Plan for last frost around May 10-15 in central Iowa.
- ✓Long summer days (15+ hours) provide excellent growing conditions.
- ✓Wind protection is important — use hedgerows or fences to shelter gardens.
What to Plant in Iowa
Cold-Hardy Crops (plant early)
These crops tolerate frost and can be planted 2-6 weeks before your last frost date.
30-60 days from sowing
55-70 days from sowing
60-80 days from sowing
50-70 days from sowing
55-80 days from transplant
35-50 days from sowing
20-35 days from sowing
July-August the following year
90-120 days from transplant
70-120 days from planting
50-70 days from sowing
50-60 days from sowing
Warm-Season Crops (plant after last frost)
Start these indoors and transplant after all frost danger has passed.
60-85 days from transplant
60-90 days from transplant
50-65 days from sowing
50-65 days from sowing
45-60 days from sowing
60-100 days from sowing
30-60 days from sowing
Get Exact Planting Dates for Iowa
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Frequently Asked Questions
When is the last frost date in Iowa?
Last frost dates in Iowa vary by city: Des Moines (Apr 22), Cedar Rapids (Apr 26), Sioux City (Apr 28).
What USDA hardiness zones are in Iowa?
Iowa spans USDA hardiness zones 4b-5b. Your specific zone determines which perennials survive winter and when to start planting annuals.
What vegetables grow best in Iowa?
Hardy crops like peas, kale, spinach, and garlic thrive across Iowa. In warmer zones, tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers do well with proper timing. Use our free calculator for exact planting dates.
How long is the growing season in Iowa?
140-170 frost-free days depending on location. Extend your season with cold frames, row covers, and indoor seed starting.
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Calculate exact planting dates based on your location and frost dates.