Iowa Growing Guide
Capital: Des Moines • Midwest Region
Complete growing guide for Iowa gardeners. Learn what to plant, when to plant, and how to succeed with humid continental climate conditions across zones 4, 5.
USDA Zones
Days Season
Last Frost (Early)
First Frost (Early)
Climate & Growing Conditions
Climate Type
Humid Continental
Growing season of 145 to 175 days
Frost Dates
Last Spring Frost: April 20 – May 15
First Fall Frost: September 25 – October 15
Common Soil Types
⚠️ Growing Challenges
- •Flooding
- •Late spring
- •Corn/soybean pests
- •Variable weather
✓ Growing Advantages
- ✓World-class soil
- ✓Adequate rainfall
- ✓Cool nights enhance flavor
Iowa's Famous Crops
Crop Guides for Iowa
Select a crop for Iowa-specific growing instructions
Burgundy
55-65 days
Clemson Spineless
55-65 days
Emerald
55-65 days
Jing Orange (Chinese)
55-65 days
⚠️ Required Corrections Before Sync
55-65 days
Star of David (Israeli)
55-65 days
American Flag
80-150 days
Bandit
80-150 days
King Richard
80-150 days
Lancelot
80-150 days
Ailsa Craig
105-125 days
Ambition (F1)
90-120 days
Cipollini Red
80-95 days
Cipollini Yellow
80-95 days
Conservor (F1)
90-120 days
Copra
104-114 days
Copra (F1)
90-120 days
Dutch Yellow
90-120 days
Evergreen Hardy White
60-80 days
Evergreen White
60-70 days
French Gray (Griselle)
90-120 days
Nabechan (F1)
60-80 days
Patterson
104-114 days
Pink Root
90-120 days
+26 more varieties available
📅 Iowa Monthly Planting Calendar
See what to plant each month in Iowa based on your local frost dates
View Monthly Calendar →Resources
Iowa Cooperative Extension
Get expert local advice from your state's agricultural extension service
Visit Iowa Extension →Weekly Growing Tips
Get seasonal planting reminders, crop rotation tips, and farm planning strategies delivered weekly.