When to plant Thyme in Davis County, IA
In Davis County, Thyme is a single-season spring crop — there's no second fall window. Plant April 26–May 10 for an 70–90-day harvest, finishing well before the October 16 first frost.
When to Plant Thyme in Davis County, IA
Thyme is a low-growing perennial herb with tiny, aromatic leaves and a warm, earthy flavor. It is one of the most versatile culinary and medicinal herbs.
Davis County, Iowa is in USDA Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is April 19 and the first fall frost is October 16, giving you a growing season of approximately 180 days.
At an elevation of 859 feet, Davis County receives approximately 30.3 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 85°F, providing good warmth for Thyme during the growing season.
Davis County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Thyme Planting Timeline — Davis County, IA
Thyme Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | April 26 | Apr 26 – May 10 |
| Harvest | July 5 | Jul 5 – Sep 6 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | Transplant Outdoors |
| 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
180 days in Davis County
Growing Tips for Davis County
Start from seed, cuttings, or divisions. Plant in well-drained, lean soil. Prune lightly after flowering. Replace plants every 3-4 years when they become woody.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Thyme in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Thyme in Davis County, IA?
Davis County is in Zone 5b with an average last frost of April 19. Plan your Thyme planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Davis County, IA?
Davis County, Iowa is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is April 19 and first fall frost is October 16.
When should I plant Thyme in Davis County, IA?
In Davis County, IA, plant Thyme after the last frost (around April 19) and before the first frost (around October 16). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Davis County, IA for Thyme?
Davis County sits in USDA Zone 5b. Thyme grows reliably in zones 4a through 9b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Thyme grow in Davis County's climate?
Yes — Thyme grows well in Davis County's temperate climate. Davis County averages a 180-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 19 and first frost around October 16.
Your Davis County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Davis 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.