When to plant Tomatillo in Boone County, IA
The best window to plant Tomatillo in Boone County, is May 5–May 26, when soil warms to 50°F. Last frost typically hits April 28; first frost October 6.
When to Plant Tomatillo in Boone County, IA
Tomatillos are a Mexican staple that produces tart, green fruits enclosed in papery husks. They are essential for salsa verde and green sauces.
Boone County, Iowa is in USDA Zone 5a. The average last spring frost is April 28 and the first fall frost is October 6, giving you a growing season of approximately 161 days.
At an elevation of 950 feet, Boone County receives approximately 30.7 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 85°F, providing good warmth for Tomatillo during the growing season.
Boone County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Tomatillo Planting Timeline — Boone County, IA
Tomatillo Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 3 | Mar 3 – Mar 17 |
| Transplant Outdoors | May 12 | May 12 – May 26 |
| Direct Sow | May 5 | May 5 – May 26 |
| Harvest | July 14 | Jul 14 – Sep 22 |
Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Start Indoors |
| April | — |
| May | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| June | — |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| September | Harvest |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
Moderate — regular watering
📅 Days to Maturity
60–85 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 5a
📆 Growing Season
161 days in Boone County
Growing Tips for Boone County
Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost. Plant at least two plants for cross-pollination. Harvest when fruits fill the husk and it begins to split.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
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Tomatillo in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Tomatillo in Boone County, IA?
Boone County is in Zone 5a with an average last frost of April 28. Plan your Tomatillo planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Boone County, IA?
Boone County, Iowa is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5a. The average last spring frost is April 28 and first fall frost is October 6.
When should I plant Tomatillo in Boone County, IA?
In Boone County, IA, plant Tomatillo after the last frost (around April 28) and before the first frost (around October 6). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Boone County, IA for Tomatillo?
Boone County sits in USDA Zone 5a. Tomatillo grows reliably in zones 4a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Tomatillo grow in Boone County's climate?
Yes — Tomatillo grows well in Boone County's temperate climate. Boone County averages a 161-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 28 and first frost around October 6.
Your Boone County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Boone County (Zone 5a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.