When to plant Thyme in Des Moines County, IA
In Des Moines County, Thyme is a single-season spring crop — there's no second fall window. Plant April 24–May 8 for an 70–90-day harvest, finishing well before the October 16 first frost.
When to Plant Thyme in Des Moines 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.
Des Moines County, Iowa is in USDA Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is April 17 and the first fall frost is October 16, giving you a growing season of approximately 182 days.
At an elevation of 606 feet, Des Moines County receives approximately 38.8 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 85°F, providing good warmth for Thyme during the growing season.
Des Moines County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Thyme Planting Timeline — Des Moines County, IA
Thyme Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | April 24 | Apr 24 – May 8 |
| Harvest | July 3 | Jul 3 – Sep 4 |
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 6a
📆 Growing Season
182 days in Des Moines County
Growing Tips for Des Moines 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 Des Moines County, IA?
Des Moines County is in Zone 6a with an average last frost of April 17. Plan your Thyme planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Des Moines County, IA?
Des Moines County, Iowa is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is April 17 and first fall frost is October 16.
When should I plant Thyme in Des Moines County, IA?
In Des Moines County, IA, plant Thyme after the last frost (around April 17) and before the first frost (around October 16). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Des Moines County, IA for Thyme?
Des Moines County sits in USDA Zone 6a. Thyme grows reliably in zones 4a through 9b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Thyme grow in Des Moines County's climate?
Yes — Thyme grows well in Des Moines County's temperate climate. Des Moines County averages a 182-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 17 and first frost around October 16.
Your Des Moines County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Des Moines County (Zone 6a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.