When to plant Lemon Thyme in Adams County, IA
In Adams County, Lemon Thyme is a single-season spring crop — there's no second fall window. Plant May 1–May 15 for an 70–90-day harvest, finishing well before the October 11 first frost.
When to Plant Lemon Thyme in Adams County, IA
Lemon thyme is a low-growing perennial herb with tiny, citrus-scented leaves. It combines the savory quality of thyme with a bright lemon flavor, excellent with fish and poultry.
Adams County, Iowa is in USDA Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is April 24 and the first fall frost is October 11, giving you a growing season of approximately 170 days.
At an elevation of 998 feet, Adams County receives approximately 32.1 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 86°F, providing good warmth for Lemon Thyme during the growing season.
Adams County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Lemon Thyme Planting Timeline — Adams County, IA
Lemon Thyme Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | May 1 | May 1 – May 15 |
| Harvest | July 10 | Jul 10 – Sep 11 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | — |
| May | Transplant Outdoors |
| June | — |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| September | Harvest |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
Low — drought tolerant
📅 Days to Maturity
70–90 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–8 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 5b
📆 Growing Season
170 days in Adams County
Growing Tips for Adams County
Start from cuttings or divisions. Plant in well-drained soil. Trim back after flowering. Use as a fragrant ground cover or edging plant along garden paths.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Lemon Thyme in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Lemon Thyme in Adams County, IA?
Adams County is in Zone 5b with an average last frost of April 24. Plan your Lemon Thyme planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Adams County, IA?
Adams County, Iowa is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is April 24 and first fall frost is October 11.
When should I plant Lemon Thyme in Adams County, IA?
In Adams County, IA, plant Lemon Thyme after the last frost (around April 24) and before the first frost (around October 11). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Adams County, IA for Lemon Thyme?
Adams County sits in USDA Zone 5b. Lemon Thyme grows reliably in zones 5a through 9b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Lemon Thyme grow in Adams County's climate?
Yes — Lemon Thyme grows well in Adams County's temperate climate. Adams County averages a 170-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 24 and first frost around October 11.
Your Adams County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Adams County (Zone 5b). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.