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Dubuque County, IA — Planting Guide

Dubuque County, Iowa Zone 5a June

This month in Dubuque County, Iowa

A quick June briefing for Dubuque County, Iowa gardeners — what's urgent, what's next, and what can wait.

Avg. last frost April 29
Avg. first frost October 9
Soil temp (4") 64°F
Watering Low
Pest pressure High
Daylight 15.1 hrs
  1. Fire up the seed-starting tray: basil, cucumber, and kale

    Your window is short. These crops want several weeks of indoor growth before they go outside.

  2. Collect carrots, kale, and lettuce at their peak

    Morning harvests are best — cooler temperatures mean crisper produce and longer fridge life.

Before July arrives, get these ready
  • Starting indoors: peppers, astilbe, and begonias
  • First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
  • Fall sowing: carrots, kale, and lettuce

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Dubuque County is in USDA Zone 5a. The average last spring frost is April 29 and the first fall frost is October 9, giving you a growing season of approximately 163 days.

At an elevation of 1,243 ft, Dubuque County receives approximately 36.6 in of rainfall annually. The predominant soil type is Silt Loam.

Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 32 days year to year — ranging from April 13 in warm years to May 15 in cold years. The growing season is trending shorter by about 2.78 days per decade. Dubuque County scores 57/100 (Moderate) on the Microclimate Index.

🌡️ Zone

5a (-20°F to -15°F min)

❄️ Last Frost

April 29

🍂 First Frost

October 9

📅 Growing Season

163 days

⛰️ Elevation

1,243 ft

🌧️ Annual Rainfall

36.6 in

Dubuque County, IA Moderate season
163 days
❄
Last Spring Frost April 29
➔ 163 growing days ➔
❄
First Fall Frost October 9

Monthly Watering Calendar for Dubuque County

When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.

Quick context: A drip irrigation system pays for itself in 1-2 seasons in any climate. Dubuque County's 37" annual rainfall determines whether you'll run it weekly (dry zones) or maybe just during summer dry spells (wet zones).

1"/wk 0" 1.3" 2.5" 3.8" 5" Jan 1.4" Feb 1.6" Mar 2.4" +0.9" Apr 3.4" May 4.1" Jun 4.8" Jul 4.3" +0.8" Aug 3.5" +1.1" Sep 3.2" +1" Oct 3.3" Nov 2.6" Dec 1.9"
Rainfall sufficient Supplemental water needed Heavy watering required - - - 1"/week garden need
View detailed monthly data
MonthAvg RainfallRainy DaysExtra Water NeededWatering Effort
Jan 1.4 in 8 days — None
Feb 1.6 in 6 days — None
Mar 2.4 in 8 days — None
Apr 3.4 in 10 days 0.9 in Moderate
May 4.1 in 12 days 0.2 in Low
Jun 4.8 in 9 days — Low
Jul 4.3 in 8 days — Low
Aug 3.5 in 9 days 0.8 in Moderate
Sep 3.2 in 7 days 1.1 in Moderate
Oct 3.3 in 7 days 1 in Moderate
Nov 2.6 in 8 days — None
Dec 1.9 in 7 days — None

Annual total: 36.5 in. Water needs vary by crop — tomatoes need ~1.2"/week while herbs like rosemary need only 0.3"/week. Check individual plant pages for crop-specific water budgets that factor in your county's rainfall and soil drainage.

Dubuque County Soil Profile

Soil Type

Silt Loam

Soil pH

5.8-7.3

Drainage

Well Drained

Frost Risk Probability

Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data from 3 stations

Too early frost risk Safe to Plant Apr 29 → Oct 9 163 frost-free days Protect crops frost returns Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Safe: May 15 Protect by: Oct 19

Beginners: Plant frost-sensitive crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) after the "Safe" date on the left. Harvest or cover them before the "Protect by" date on the right. Hardy crops (lettuce, peas, kale) can go in the yellow transition zones.

How to read this table: "Conservative" means you're safe from frost 9 out of 10 years — best for beginners and frost-sensitive crops. "Average year" is the typical date. "Aggressive" means only 1 in 10 years is that warm — experienced gardeners with frost protection can try these dates.

Planting Strategy Last Spring Frost First Fall Frost Frost-Free Days
Conservative (safest) May 15 Oct 19 157 days
Cautious May 6 Oct 12 159 days
Average year Apr 29 Oct 9 163 days
Optimistic Apr 24 Oct 3 162 days
Aggressive (risky) Apr 13 Sep 21 161 days
📊
How predictable are frost dates here?

Not very — frost dates can vary by ±32 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.

⚠️
Is the growing season changing?

Yes — growing seasons are getting shorter here (about 2.8 days per decade). Use the "Conservative" dates and choose fast-maturing varieties.

Gardening Difficulty Score

57 Moderate
Frost Timing Risk
10.0/10
Drought Risk
5.5/10
Soil Difficulty
0.0/10
Altitude Challenge
0.5/10
Climate Shift
10.0/10
Rainfall Challenge
0.0/10

Dubuque County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.

Zone 5a Frost Countdown
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Loading...
Last Frost: Apr 29 First Frost: Oct 9

Local Gardening Help in Dubuque County

Free expert help is closer than you think. Your county's cooperative extension office connects you with trained gardeners, soil testing labs, and local programs — all specific to Dubuque County's climate and soil.

County Extension Office

Dubuque County Iowa State University Extension Extension Office

Phone: 515-294-6675

Visit Extension Office Website →

Extension offices are run by land-grant universities and funded by the USDA. Their advice is free, research-based, and tailored to your county's specific conditions.

Master Gardener Program

Free gardening help from trained volunteers

Master Gardeners are community volunteers who complete 40–60 hours of university horticultural training. They answer gardening questions, diagnose plant problems, and offer workshops — all free.

Find Master Gardeners in IA →

Many extension offices run a Master Gardener hotline where you can call or email with photos of plant problems for free diagnosis.

Soil Testing

Available through your extension office

Before amending your soil, get it tested. Your extension office offers soil testing (typically $10–$25) that tells you exact pH, nutrient levels, and amendment recommendations specific to what you want to grow.

Request a Soil Test →

Services Available in Dubuque County

Soil testing Pest identification Gardening hotline
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Dubuque County

Why Buy Local

Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Dubuque County's soil and climate that big-box stores can't. Plants from local growers are typically hardier because they're already acclimated to your zone.

How to Find Them

Search for "nurseries near Dubuque County IA" or "garden center Dubuque County" on Google Maps. Also check with your extension office — they often maintain lists of reputable local nurseries and plant sales.

Community gardens & gardening groups

Community gardens are a great way to learn from experienced gardeners in your area, especially if you're limited on space. Search "community garden Dubuque County IA" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Dubuque County Gardeners" or "Iowa Gardening" are also excellent for local advice and plant swaps.

What to Plant After Your Harvest

After your first crops finish, use the remaining frost-free days to grow a second round.

After Snap Peas (harvest ends Sep 2) 37 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Crocus 10-20d Hyacinths 14-28d Tulips 15-30d
After Beets (harvest ends Jul 22) 79 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Zucchini (harvest ends Aug 26) 44 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Crocus 10-20d Hyacinths 14-28d Tulips 15-30d
After Green Beans (harvest ends Aug 19) 51 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Cantaloupe (harvest ends Sep 2) 37 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Crocus 10-20d Hyacinths 14-28d Tulips 15-30d
After Cabbage (harvest ends Aug 26) 44 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Crocus 10-20d Hyacinths 14-28d Tulips 15-30d
Show 6 more succession options
After Corn (harvest ends Aug 26) 44 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Crocus 10-20d Hyacinths 14-28d Tulips 15-30d
After Watermelon (harvest ends Sep 9) 30 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Crocus 10-20d Hyacinths 14-28d Tulips 15-30d
After Pole Beans (harvest ends Sep 2) 37 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Crocus 10-20d Hyacinths 14-28d Tulips 15-30d
After Broccoli (harvest ends Aug 12) 58 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Zucchini 45-60d Basil 50-75d Cucumber 50-70d
After Melon (harvest ends Sep 9) 30 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Crocus 10-20d Hyacinths 14-28d Tulips 15-30d
After Basil (harvest ends Sep 9) 30 days until frost
Radish 22-35d Lettuce 30-60d Crocus 10-20d Hyacinths 14-28d Tulips 15-30d

Sunlight & Day Length in Dubuque County

Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.

Why it matters: Day length is the trigger that tells lettuce, spinach, and cilantro to bolt. In Dubuque County, knowing when that day-length threshold arrives helps you plant a final round in time to harvest before it bolts.

Longest Day

15.1 hours

Summer solstice daylight

Shortest Day

8.9 hours

Winter solstice daylight

Peak Sun Hours

9.3 hr/day peak (summer)

Peak sun hours (green dashed line below) account for cloud cover — this is the usable direct sunlight your garden actually receives. Most vegetables need 6+ peak sun hours.

14hr 12hr 2h 6h 10h 13h 17h Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
Daylight hours (sunrise to sunset) Peak sun hours (direct sunlight after cloud cover) ▪ Gold zone = long day (14+ hr) ▪ Blue zone = short day (<12 hr)

Onion tip: Your long summer days (14+ hours) support long-day onion varieties like Walla Walla, Sweet Spanish, and Ailsa Craig.

View detailed monthly data
MonthDaylight HoursPeak Sun HoursDay Length
January 9.2 hr 3.5 hr Short day
February 10.3 hr 4.7 hr Short day
March 11.7 hr 5.5 hr Short day
April 13.2 hr 6.5 hr Neutral
May 14.4 hr 8.1 hr Long day
June 15.1 hr 9.1 hr Long day
July 14.8 hr 9.3 hr Long day
August 13.7 hr 8.8 hr Neutral
September 12.3 hr 6.9 hr Neutral
October 10.8 hr 5.9 hr Short day
November 9.5 hr 3.8 hr Short day
December 8.9 hr 3.4 hr Short day

Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.

Soil Temperature & Composting in Dubuque County

Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.

Quick context: Watching soil temperature (not air) is the single biggest upgrade most new gardeners can make. Dubuque County's typical curve helps you plan — but a $5 soil thermometer in the bed beats any average.

Plant Warm Crops When

Soil reaches 60°F+

Soil warm enough from Jun through Sep.

Best Month to Compost

Jul

Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.

Active Composting

6 months

Solid season. Piles go dormant in winter.

60°F 70°F 0° 23° 45° 68° 90° Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
4" depth 8" depth - - - 60°F (corn, beans) - - - 70°F (tomatoes, peppers)
View detailed monthly data
MonthSoil 4" DeepSoil 8" DeepCompost ActivityTime to Finish
Jan 12°F 24°F ❄️ Dormant ~36 weeks
Feb 15°F 21°F ❄️ Dormant ~36 weeks
Mar 25°F 27°F ❄️ Dormant ~36 weeks
Apr 39°F 40°F ❄️ Dormant ~36 weeks
May 53°F 51°F ♻️ Active ~14 weeks
Jun 65°F 59°F ♻️ Active ~14 weeks
Jul 72°F 65°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Aug 71°F 69°F 🔥 Peak ~8 weeks
Sep 64°F 63°F ♻️ Active ~14 weeks
Oct 54°F 54°F ♻️ Active ~14 weeks
Nov 36°F 44°F ❄️ Dormant ~36 weeks
Dec 20°F 30°F ❄️ Dormant ~36 weeks

Highlighted rows = soil 60°F+ (safe for warm-season transplants). Compost finishes fastest during peak activity months.

Pest & Disease Pressure in Dubuque County

Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.

For new gardeners: Two gardeners can grow identical seeds and get wildly different results based on pest pressure alone. Dubuque County's climate sets a floor on what's possible without intervention.

Insect Pest Pressure

4.9 / 10

Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.

Disease Risk

5.9 / 10

Moderate — watch for mildew and blight during wet periods.

Seasonal Risk

Spring Low
Summer High
Fall Low
Winter Low
View 5 common pests in your area
PestRisk LevelPeak Months
Aphids Moderate May, Jun, Jul, Aug
Cabbage worms Low Jun, Jul, Aug
Colorado potato beetle Low Jun, Jul
Flea beetles Low May, Jun, Jul
Slugs Low May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Organic pest management tips
  • Use row covers on susceptible crops during peak pest months
  • Apply neem oil preventatively every 7-14 days during active pest season
  • Interplant with strong-scented herbs (basil, marigold) to confuse pests
  • Hand-pick larger pests (beetles, caterpillars) in early morning when they're sluggish
  • Practice crop rotation — never plant the same family in the same spot within 3 years

Cover Crops for Dubuque County

Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.

Quick context: Cover crops protect microbial life through winter and summer. Bare soil bakes; covered soil stays cooler, moister, and biologically active. The difference shows up in next year's crops.

Spring Cover Crops (2 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
Crop Plant By Terminate N-Fixing Soil Benefit
Buckwheat May 2 Aug 7 — Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds
White clover Mar 29 Aug 14 ✓ Yes Living mulch, fixes nitrogen, permanent ground cover
Summer Cover Crops (1 options) — Fill gaps and suppress weeds between plantings
Crop Plant By Terminate N-Fixing Soil Benefit
Sunflowers May 15 Sep 18 — Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects
Fall Cover Crops (5 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
Crop Plant By Terminate N-Fixing Soil Benefit
Daikon radish Aug 12 Apr 15 — Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils
Hairy vetch Jul 14 Apr 15 ✓ Yes Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils
Oats Aug 28 Apr 8 — Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed
Winter rye Jun 30 Apr 8 — Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil
Winter wheat Jul 16 Apr 8 — Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass

Wind & Microclimate in Dubuque County

Why this matters: Wind shapes the garden you don't think about: bee paths, evaporation, structural stress on tomato cages. Dubuque County's 9.8 mph background level is a baseline you should know before placing the tallest crops (sunflowers, pole beans, sweet corn).

Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.

Seasonal Wind Speed

Spring: 11 mph   Summer: 10 mph

Fall: 10 mph   Winter: 11 mph

Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.

Windbreak Benefit

4.7/10

Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.

Frost Pocket Risk

Low

Relatively flat terrain (114 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.

Rainwater Harvesting in Dubuque County

How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.

Quick context: Building a rainwater system is mostly about doing the math: roof area × annual rainfall × 0.6 = gallons you could realistically capture. For Dubuque County, that's your 37" times your roof.

Annual Collection

18,191 gal

Per 1,000 sq ft of roof area (at 80% collection efficiency)

Recommended Setup

6 rain barrels (55 gal each)

For a typical 500 sq ft garden. Serious collectors: consider a 1,750 gal tank.

Legal Status

Unrestricted

Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.

Best Collection Months

May, Jun, Jul, Aug

Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.

Months to Draw From Storage

Jan, Feb, Dec

Dry months when you'll rely on stored water — size your storage for this gap.

Rainwater collection tips for your area
  • Your county receives approximately 36.5 inches of rain per year
  • A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 18,191 gallons annually
  • Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
  • Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Jan, Feb, Dec)
  • Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection

Soil & Growing Conditions in Dubuque County

Soil Type

Silt Loam

Soil pH 5.8–7.3 · Excessively Drained drainage

Native soil is well-suited to most vegetables and herbs with regular compost additions.

Watering Needs

Drought stress: 5.5/10

Moderate drought pressure. Drip irrigation and mulching are highly recommended to maintain soil moisture through summer.

Season Tips

163-day frost-free season

Start warm-season crops indoors and focus on short-season varieties. Cold frames extend your season by 3–4 weeks in fall.

Your Free Printable Garden Planner

Plan every bed, every planting, every harvest — in one place. This 22-page printable includes your zone's planting calendar, a month-by-month task list, a seed inventory tracker, a harvest log, and succession-planting charts. Built to print, write in, and actually use all season.

Instant PDF download. No spam, unsubscribe any time.

Recommended for Your Garden

🧪
Soil Test Kit $12-25

Test your soil pH, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium levels before planting.

Know your soil before you plant for best results.

📏
Digital pH Meter $10-20

Get instant, accurate soil pH readings to fine-tune your amendments.

Helpful for your garden setup.

🍂
Organic Compost $8-30

Boost soil fertility and structure with rich, well-aged organic compost.

Helpful for your garden setup.

🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Dubuque County

105 vegetables that grow well in Zone 5a with planting dates for Dubuque County.

Show all 105 vegetables with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Harvest Days to Maturity
Acorn Squash Mar 25 May 6 May 13 — Aug 5 – Sep 9 80–100
Amaranth Mar 4 May 6 May 13 — Aug 12 – Sep 30 90–120
Arugula Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Jul 31 Jun 3 – Aug 5 30–50
Asparagus — — May 13 — — 730–1095
Beets — Apr 15 — Jul 31 Jun 10 – Jul 8 50–70
Belgian Endive Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Jul 31 Aug 19 – Oct 14 110–150
Bitter Melon Mar 4 May 6 May 13 — Jul 15 – Aug 26 60–90
Black Beans — May 6 — — Aug 5 – Sep 23 90–120
Bok Choy Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Jul 31 Jun 10 – Jul 15 40–60
Broccoli Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Jul 31 Jul 1 – Aug 12 60–90
Broccoli Rabe Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Jul 31 Jun 10 – Jul 15 40–60
Brussels Sprouts Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Jul 31 Jul 29 – Sep 23 90–130
Butternut Squash Mar 25 May 6 May 13 — Aug 12 – Sep 16 85–110
Cabbage Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Jul 31 Jul 1 – Aug 26 60–100
Calabash Mar 4 May 6 May 13 — Aug 5 – Sep 30 80–120
Carrots — Apr 15 — Jul 31 Jun 17 – Jul 22 60–80
Cauliflower Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Jul 31 Jun 24 – Aug 26 55–100
Celeriac Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Jul 31 Aug 12 – Sep 16 100–120
Celery Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Jul 31 Jul 22 – Sep 16 80–120
Celtuce Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Jul 31 Jul 1 – Aug 12 60–90
Chard Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Jul 31 Jun 24 – Aug 12 50–60
Chickpeas Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Jul 31 Jul 22 – Sep 2 80–110
Chicory Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Jul 31 Jul 1 – Aug 12 60–85
Chinese Cabbage Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Jul 31 Jun 24 – Jul 22 50–70
Christmas Lima Beans Mar 4 May 6 May 13 — Aug 5 – Sep 9 80–100
Collard Greens Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Jul 31 Jun 24 – Aug 26 55–75
Corn — May 6 — — Jul 8 – Sep 2 60–100
Cowpeas — May 6 — — Jul 8 – Aug 19 60–90
Cress Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Jul 31 May 13 – Jun 3 14–21
Crookneck Squash Mar 25 May 6 May 13 — Jul 1 – Jul 29 45–60
Crosne — Apr 15 — Jul 31 Sep 16 – Sep 30 150–200
Cucumber Mar 25 May 6 May 13 — Jul 8 – Sep 2 50–70
Daikon — Apr 15 — Jul 31 Jun 10 – Jul 8 50–70
Delicata Squash Mar 25 May 6 May 13 — Aug 5 – Sep 9 80–100
Edamame — May 6 — — Jul 22 – Sep 2 75–100
Eggplant Feb 18 May 6 May 13 — Jul 22 – Sep 23 65–85
Endive Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Jul 31 Jun 17 – Jul 22 45–65
Escarole Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Jul 31 Jun 24 – Jul 22 50–70
Fava Beans Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Jul 31 Jul 15 – Aug 26 75–100
Fennel Mar 4 May 6 May 13 — Jul 15 – Aug 26 60–90
Garlic — — — Aug 28 Nov 27 – Feb 12 90–240
Green Beans — May 6 — — Jul 1 – Aug 26 50–65
Horseradish — — May 13 — Sep 16 – Oct 28 120–180
Hot Peppers Feb 18 May 6 May 13 — Jul 22 – Oct 28 70–120
Hubbard Squash Mar 25 May 6 May 13 — Aug 26 – Sep 30 100–120
Kabocha Mar 25 May 6 May 13 — Aug 12 – Sep 9 85–100
Kai Lan Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Jul 31 Jun 17 – Jul 15 45–60
Kale Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Jul 31 Jun 24 – Aug 19 50–70
Kidney Beans — May 6 — — Aug 5 – Sep 9 85–110
Kohlrabi Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Jul 31 Jun 17 – Jul 22 45–65
Komatsuna Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Jul 31 Jun 3 – Jul 8 35–50
Leeks Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Jul 31 Jul 29 – Oct 14 90–150
Lentils Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Jul 31 Jul 22 – Sep 2 80–110
Lettuce Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Jul 31 Jun 3 – Aug 12 30–60
Lima Beans — May 6 — — Jul 8 – Aug 19 60–90
Mache Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Jul 31 Jun 10 – Jul 15 40–60
Melon Mar 25 May 6 May 13 — Jul 22 – Sep 9 70–100
Microgreens Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Jul 31 May 6 – Jun 3 7–21
Mitsuba Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 22 Jul 31 Jun 17 – Aug 12 50–70
Mizuna Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Jul 31 Jun 3 – Jul 1 30–45
Mustard Greens Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Jul 31 Jun 3 – Aug 5 30–50
Napa Cabbage Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Jul 31 Jun 24 – Jul 29 55–75
New Zealand Spinach Mar 4 May 6 May 13 — Jul 8 – Aug 5 55–70
Okra Mar 4 May 6 May 13 — Jul 8 – Sep 2 50–65
Onion Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Jul 31 Jul 29 – Sep 16 90–120
Pac Choi Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Jul 31 Jun 10 – Jul 8 40–55
Parsnip — Apr 15 — Jul 31 Jul 29 – Sep 9 100–130
Patty Pan Squash Mar 25 May 6 May 13 — Jul 1 – Jul 29 45–60
Peas Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Jul 31 Jun 24 – Aug 19 55–70
Peppers Feb 18 May 6 May 13 — Jul 15 – Sep 23 60–90
Pole Beans Mar 4 May 6 May 13 — Jul 8 – Sep 2 55–70
Potatoes Mar 4 May 6 May 13 — Jul 22 – Sep 30 70–120
Pumpkin Mar 25 May 6 May 13 — Aug 12 – Sep 30 85–120
Purslane Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Jul 31 Jun 10 – Jul 15 40–60
Radicchio Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Jul 31 Jul 1 – Aug 5 60–80
Radish — Apr 15 — Jul 31 May 13 – Jun 3 22–35
Rhubarb — — May 20 — — 365–730
Romanesco Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Jul 31 Jul 15 – Aug 26 75–100
Rutabaga — Apr 15 — Jul 31 Jul 8 – Aug 12 80–100
Salsify — Apr 15 — Jul 31 Jul 29 – Sep 9 100–130
Savoy Cabbage Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Jul 31 Jul 8 – Sep 2 70–110
Scallions Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Jul 31 Jun 24 – Jul 22 50–70
Scarlet Runner Beans Mar 4 May 6 May 13 — Jul 15 – Aug 19 60–80
Shallot Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Jul 31 Jul 29 – Sep 16 90–120
Shiso Mar 11 May 6 May 13 — Jul 8 – Sep 2 50–70
Snap Peas Mar 4 May 6 May 13 — Jul 8 – Sep 2 55–70
Snow Peas Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Jul 31 Jun 24 – Aug 19 50–65
Soybeans — May 6 — — Jul 29 – Sep 23 80–120
Spaghetti Squash Mar 25 May 6 May 13 — Aug 12 – Sep 9 85–100
Spinach Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Jul 31 Jun 3 – Aug 5 35–50
Squash (Summer) Mar 25 May 6 May 13 — Jul 1 – Sep 2 45–65
Squash (Winter) Mar 25 May 6 May 13 — Aug 5 – Sep 30 80–120
Sunchoke — — May 13 — Sep 2 – Oct 28 110–150
Sweet Corn — May 6 — — Jul 8 – Aug 19 60–90
Sweet Potatoes Mar 4 May 6 May 13 — Aug 12 – Sep 30 90–120
Tatsoi Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Jul 31 Jun 3 – Jul 8 35–50
Tomatillo Mar 4 May 6 May 13 — Jul 15 – Sep 23 60–85
Tomatoes Mar 4 May 6 May 13 — Jul 15 – Sep 23 60–85
Turnip — Apr 15 — Jul 31 May 27 – Jul 1 40–60
Watercress Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 29 Jul 31 Jun 10 – Jul 15 40–60
Watermelon Mar 25 May 6 May 13 — Jul 22 – Sep 9 70–100
Wax Beans — May 6 — — Jul 1 – Aug 26 50–65
Winter Melon Mar 4 May 6 May 13 — Aug 12 – Sep 30 90–120
Yard Long Beans Mar 4 May 6 May 13 — Jul 8 – Aug 19 55–80
Zucchini Mar 25 May 6 May 13 — Jul 1 – Aug 26 45–60

🍓 Fruits to Grow in Dubuque County

27 fruits that grow well in Zone 5a with planting dates for Dubuque County.

Show all 27 fruits with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Harvest Days to Maturity
Alpine Strawberries — — May 20 — Aug 19 – Nov 4 90–180
Aronia — — May 20 — — 730–1095
Blackberries — — May 20 — — 365–730
Blueberries — — May 20 — — 730–1095
Boysenberries — — May 20 — — 365–730
Cantaloupe — — May 20 — Jul 29 – Sep 2 70–90
Che Fruit — — May 20 — — 1095–1825
Cranberries — — May 20 — — 730–1095
Currants — — May 20 — — 730–1095
Elderberries — — May 20 — — 730–1095
Goji Berries — — May 20 — — 730–1095
Gooseberries — — May 20 — — 730–1095
Grapes — — May 20 — — 730–1095
Ground Cherry — — May 20 — Jul 29 – Sep 23 65–80
Hardy Kiwi — — May 20 — — 1095–1825
Haskaps — — May 20 — — 730–1095
Honeydew — — May 20 — Aug 12 – Sep 23 80–110
Jostaberry — — May 20 — — 730–1095
Lingonberries — — May 20 — — 730–1095
Medlar — — May 20 — — 1095–1825
Mulberries — — May 20 — — 730–1825
Pawpaw — — May 20 — — 1095–2555
Persimmon — — May 20 — — 1095–2555
Quince — — May 20 — — 1095–1825
Raspberries — — May 20 — — 365–730
Serviceberries — — May 20 — — 730–1095
Strawberries — — May 20 — Aug 19 – Nov 4 90–365

🌿 Herbs to Grow in Dubuque County

34 herbs that grow well in Zone 5a with planting dates for Dubuque County.

Show all 34 herbs with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Harvest Days to Maturity
Angelica Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 22 Jul 31 — 365–730
Anise Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 22 Jul 31 Jul 22 – Oct 7 90–120
Basil Mar 11 May 6 May 13 — Jul 8 – Sep 9 50–75
Bee Balm — — May 6 — Aug 5 – Oct 21 90–120
Borage Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 22 Jul 31 Jun 17 – Aug 5 50–60
Caraway Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 22 Jul 31 — 365–450
Catnip — — May 6 — Jul 8 – Sep 9 60–80
Chamomile Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 22 Jul 31 Jun 24 – Sep 2 60–90
Chervil Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 22 Jul 31 Jun 3 – Aug 5 40–60
Chives — — May 6 — Jul 8 – Sep 16 60–90
Cilantro Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 22 Jul 31 Jun 3 – Aug 5 40–60
Comfrey — — May 6 — Jul 8 – Sep 16 60–90
Cumin Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 22 Jul 31 Aug 5 – Oct 7 100–120
Dill Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 22 Jul 31 Jun 3 – Aug 5 40–60
Epazote Mar 11 May 6 May 13 — Jul 1 – Aug 26 45–60
Fennel (herb) Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 22 Jul 31 Jun 24 – Sep 2 60–90
Feverfew — — May 6 — Aug 5 – Oct 21 90–120
Garlic Chives — — May 6 — Jul 8 – Sep 16 60–90
Horehound — — May 6 — Jul 22 – Sep 16 75–90
Hyssop — — May 6 — Jul 15 – Sep 16 70–90
Lemon Balm — — May 6 — Jul 8 – Aug 26 60–70
Lemon Thyme — — May 6 — Jul 15 – Sep 16 70–90
Lovage — — May 6 — Jul 15 – Sep 16 70–90
Mint — — May 6 — Jul 8 – Sep 16 60–90
Oregano — — May 6 — Jul 8 – Sep 16 60–90
Parsley Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 22 Jul 31 Jun 24 – Aug 26 60–80
Rue — — May 6 — Jul 15 – Sep 16 70–90
Sage — — May 6 — Jul 22 – Sep 16 75–90
Savory — — May 6 — Jul 1 – Aug 26 50–70
Sorrel Mar 25 Apr 15 Apr 22 Jul 31 Jun 3 – Aug 5 40–60
Tarragon — — May 6 — Jul 8 – Sep 16 60–90
Thai Basil Mar 11 May 6 May 13 — Jul 8 – Sep 9 50–75
Thyme — — May 6 — Jul 15 – Sep 16 70–90
Valerian — — May 6 — Sep 9 – Oct 21 120–180

🌸 Flowers to Grow in Dubuque County

51 flowers that grow well in Zone 5a with planting dates for Dubuque County.

Show all 51 flowers with planting dates
Plant Start Indoors Direct Sow Transplant Fall Plant Bloom Days to Maturity
Ageratum Mar 11 May 6 May 6 — Jul 1 – Sep 23 60–75
Alliums — — — Aug 28 Oct 2 – Oct 30 28–42
Anemones Apr 1 — Apr 29 — Jun 10 – Jul 8 90–120
Astilbe Feb 25 — May 13 — Jul 29 – Sep 30 70–100
Bachelor's Button Mar 18 Apr 8 Apr 29 — Jul 1 – Sep 9 60–90
Begonias Feb 18 — May 6 — Jul 15 – Oct 7 70–90
Black-eyed Susan Feb 25 Apr 29 May 13 — Jul 29 – Oct 28 60–80
Bleeding Hearts Feb 25 — May 13 — Jul 8 – Aug 19 60–90
Calendula Mar 18 Apr 8 Apr 29 — Jun 17 – Sep 9 50–70
Celosia Mar 25 May 13 May 13 — Jul 15 – Oct 14 60–90
Columbine Feb 25 May 13 May 13 — Jul 8 – Aug 19 70–100
Coreopsis Feb 25 May 6 May 13 — Jul 22 – Oct 28 60–80
Cosmos Apr 1 May 6 May 6 — Jul 15 – Oct 7 60–90
Crocus — — — Aug 28 Jul 10 – Jul 31 10–20
Daffodils — — — Aug 28 Jul 17 – Aug 7 20–40
Dahlias Apr 1 May 6 May 6 — Jul 29 – Oct 21 70–120
Daylily Feb 25 — May 13 — Aug 5 – Oct 28 60–90
Dianthus Feb 25 Apr 1 Apr 15 — Jun 3 – Aug 19 60–80
Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) Feb 25 May 13 May 13 — Aug 5 – Oct 28 70–90
Foxglove Feb 25 May 13 May 13 — Jul 8 – Aug 19 80–120
Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) Mar 4 May 13 May 13 — Jul 22 – Nov 11 70–100
Geraniums Feb 18 — May 6 — Jul 15 – Oct 7 70–100
Gladiolus — May 6 May 6 — Jul 29 – Oct 21 70–100
Hostas Feb 18 — May 13 — Aug 5 – Oct 28 60–90
Hyacinths — — — Aug 28 Aug 7 – Sep 4 14–28
Hydrangeas Feb 18 — May 13 — Jul 29 – Oct 14 90–150
Impatiens Mar 4 — May 6 — Jul 15 – Oct 7 60–75
Irises — Division May 13 — Jul 8 – Aug 12 60–100
Larkspur — Apr 1 — — Jun 10 – Aug 5 60–90
Lavender Feb 18 — May 20 — Jul 29 – Sep 9 90–120
Lilies — Division May 13 — Jul 22 – Oct 14 70–120
Lobelia Feb 18 — Apr 22 — Jun 17 – Aug 26 70–80
Lupine Feb 25 May 13 May 13 — Jul 8 – Aug 19 75–100
Marigolds Mar 18 May 6 May 6 — Jul 1 – Sep 23 50–70
Nasturtium Apr 1 May 6 May 6 — Jul 1 – Oct 7 55–65
Pansy Feb 18 — Apr 29 — Jun 24 – Aug 19 70–90
Peonies — Division May 13 — Jul 22 – Sep 2 90–120
Petunia Mar 4 — May 6 — Jul 15 – Oct 7 70–90
Phlox Feb 25 May 13 May 13 — Jul 29 – Oct 14 80–110
Portulaca Mar 25 May 13 May 13 — Jul 1 – Sep 30 50–70
Roses Feb 18 — May 13 — Jul 29 – Oct 28 90–180
Salvia Feb 25 — May 6 — Jul 15 – Oct 7 70–90
Sedum (Stonecrop) Feb 25 — May 13 — Sep 9 – Nov 11 60–90
Snapdragon Feb 18 Apr 15 Apr 29 — Jul 8 – Sep 9 70–100
Sunflower Apr 8 May 6 May 6 — Jul 29 – Oct 7 70–100
Sweet Alyssum Mar 11 Apr 15 Apr 29 — Jun 10 – Aug 19 45–60
Sweet Pea Mar 18 Mar 25 Apr 29 — Jul 15 – Sep 16 65–85
Tulips — — — Aug 28 Jul 31 – Aug 21 15–30
Vinca (Annual) Feb 11 — May 13 — Jul 22 – Oct 7 70–90
Yarrow Feb 25 Apr 29 May 13 — Jul 22 – Oct 28 60–90
Zinnia Apr 1 May 6 May 6 — Jul 15 – Oct 7 60–70

Monthly Planting Guide for Dubuque County