Fayette County, IA — Planting Guide
Fayette County is in USDA Zone 4b. The average last spring frost is May 5 and the first fall frost is October 5, giving you a growing season of approximately 153 days.
At an elevation of 1,228 ft, Fayette County receives approximately 41.1 in of rainfall annually. Summer highs average 81°F with winter lows around 1°F. The predominant soil type is Silt Loam.
Based on 31 years of NOAA climate station data, the last frost date here varies by 28 days year to year — ranging from April 22 in warm years to May 20 in cold years. The growing season is trending shorter by about 0.9 days per decade. Fayette County scores 71/100 (Good) on the Microclimate Index.
🌡️ Zone
4b (-25°F to -20°F min)
❄️ Last Frost
May 5
🍂 First Frost
October 5
📅 Growing Season
153 days
⛰️ Elevation
1,228 ft
🌧️ Annual Rainfall
41.1 in
Monthly Watering Calendar
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 1.9 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Feb | 2.1 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Mar | 2.5 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Apr | 4.5 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| May | 4.6 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 4.5 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 4.8 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 4.4 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 3.5 in | 8 days | 0.8 in | Moderate |
| Oct | 3.3 in | 7 days | 1 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 2.8 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Dec | 2.1 in | 7 days | — | None |
Annual total: 41 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.
Fayette County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.2-6.8
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data from 3 stations
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 20 | Oct 15 | 148 days |
| Cautious | May 14 | Oct 9 | 148 days |
| Average year | May 5 | Oct 5 | 153 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 28 | Sep 28 | 153 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 22 | Sep 20 | 151 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±28 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Slightly — seasons are trending a bit shorter (0.9 days/decade). Stay conservative with planting dates.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Fayette County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Fayette 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 Fayette County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Fayette 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.
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.
Services Available in Fayette County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Fayette County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Fayette 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 Fayette County IA" or "garden center Fayette 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 Fayette County IA" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Fayette 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.
Show 6 more succession options
Sunlight & Day Length
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Longest Day
15.1 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
8.9 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
10.1 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.
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
| Month | Daylight Hours | Peak Sun Hours | Day Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 9.2 hr | 3.8 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.3 hr | 4.4 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 5.9 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.2 hr | 6.9 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.5 hr | 8 hr | Long day |
| June | 15.1 hr | 9.3 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.9 hr | 10.1 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.8 hr | 8.4 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.3 hr | 7 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.8 hr | 5.4 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.5 hr | 3.6 hr | Short day |
| December | 8.9 hr | 3.3 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting Calendar
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
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.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 15°F | 22°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 18°F | 22°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 24°F | 28°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 42°F | 38°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| May | 53°F | 49°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 63°F | 58°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jul | 72°F | 67°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 73°F | 69°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 65°F | 64°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Oct | 52°F | 54°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 36°F | 43°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Dec | 21°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 Fayette County
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Insect Pest Pressure
Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.
Disease Risk
Moderate — watch for mildew and blight during wet periods.
Seasonal Risk
View 5 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Cabbage worms | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Colorado potato beetle | Low | Jun, Jul |
| Flea beetles | Low | May, Jun, Jul |
| Slugs | Moderate | 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 Fayette County
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with county-specific planting dates.
Spring Cover Crops (2 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | May 8 | Jul 27 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| White clover | Apr 7 | Jul 27 | ✓ 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 29 | Sep 14 | — | 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 9 | Apr 14 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 19 | Apr 21 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 8 | Apr 14 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 9 | Apr 21 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 9 | Apr 14 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 13 mph Summer: 8 mph
Fall: 12 mph Winter: 12 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
6.5/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (181 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting Potential
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Annual Collection
20,434 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 1,250 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
Apr, May, Jun, Jul
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 41.0 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 20,434 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 Fayette County
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH 6.2–6.8 · Moderately Well Drained drainage
Native soil is well-suited to most vegetables and herbs with regular compost additions.
Watering Needs
Drought stress: 3.5/10
Low-to-moderate drought stress. Plan to water 1–2 times per week during peak summer. (41.1 in. annual rainfall)
Season Tips
153-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.
Free Garden Planner
Plan your entire garden season — organize planting dates, track what you're growing, and know exactly when to start seeds, transplant, and harvest.
Recommended for Your Garden
Test your soil pH, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium levels before planting.
Get instant, accurate soil pH readings to fine-tune your amendments.
Boost soil fertility and structure with rich, well-aged organic compost.
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Fayette County
96 vegetables that grow well in Zone 4b with planting dates for Fayette County.
Show all 96 vegetables with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 24 | May 19 | May 26 | Aug 18 – Sep 22 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 3 | May 19 | May 26 | Aug 25 – Oct 13 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jun 9 – Aug 11 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 19 | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Apr 28 | — | Jun 23 – Jul 21 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Aug 25 – Sep 29 | 110–150 |
| Black Beans | — | May 19 | — | Aug 18 – Oct 6 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jun 16 – Jul 21 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jul 7 – Aug 18 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jun 16 – Jul 21 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Aug 4 – Sep 29 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 24 | May 19 | May 26 | Aug 25 – Sep 29 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jul 7 – Sep 1 | 60–100 |
| Carrots | — | Apr 28 | — | Jun 30 – Aug 4 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jun 30 – Sep 1 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Aug 18 – Sep 22 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jul 28 – Sep 22 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jul 7 – Aug 18 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jun 30 – Aug 18 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jul 28 – Sep 8 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jul 7 – Aug 18 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jun 30 – Jul 28 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 3 | May 19 | May 26 | Aug 18 – Sep 22 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jun 30 – Sep 1 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | May 19 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 15 | 60–100 |
| Cress | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | May 19 – Jun 9 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 24 | May 19 | May 26 | Jul 14 – Aug 11 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Apr 28 | — | Sep 29 – Sep 22 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 24 | May 19 | May 26 | Jul 21 – Sep 15 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Apr 28 | — | Jun 23 – Jul 21 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 24 | May 19 | May 26 | Aug 18 – Sep 22 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | May 19 | — | Aug 4 – Sep 15 | 75–100 |
| Endive | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jun 23 – Jul 28 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jun 30 – Jul 28 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jul 21 – Sep 1 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 3 | May 19 | May 26 | Jul 28 – Sep 8 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | — | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | May 19 | — | Jul 14 – Sep 8 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 19 | Sep 22 – Oct 13 | 120–180 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 24 | May 19 | May 26 | Sep 8 – Oct 13 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Mar 24 | May 19 | May 26 | Aug 25 – Sep 22 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jun 23 – Jul 21 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jun 30 – Aug 25 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | May 19 | — | Aug 18 – Sep 22 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jun 23 – Jul 28 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jun 9 – Jul 14 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Aug 4 – Sep 29 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jul 28 – Sep 8 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jun 9 – Aug 18 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | May 19 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 1 | 60–90 |
| Mache | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jun 16 – Jul 21 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Mar 24 | May 19 | May 26 | Aug 4 – Sep 22 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | May 12 – Jun 9 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | Apr 28 | Jun 23 – Aug 18 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jun 9 – Jul 7 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jun 9 – Aug 11 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jun 30 – Aug 4 | 55–75 |
| Onion | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Aug 4 – Sep 22 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jun 16 – Jul 14 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Apr 28 | — | Aug 11 – Sep 22 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 24 | May 19 | May 26 | Jul 14 – Aug 11 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jun 30 – Aug 25 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 17 | May 19 | May 26 | Jul 28 – Oct 6 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 3 | May 19 | May 26 | Jul 21 – Sep 15 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 3 | May 19 | May 26 | Aug 4 – Oct 13 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 24 | May 19 | May 26 | Aug 25 – Oct 13 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jun 16 – Jul 21 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jul 7 – Aug 11 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Apr 28 | — | May 26 – Jun 16 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Jun 2 | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jul 21 – Sep 1 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Apr 28 | — | Jul 21 – Aug 25 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Apr 28 | — | Aug 11 – Sep 22 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jul 14 – Sep 8 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jun 30 – Jul 28 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 3 | May 19 | May 26 | Jul 28 – Sep 1 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Aug 4 – Sep 22 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 10 | May 12 | May 26 | Jul 21 – Sep 15 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 3 | May 19 | May 26 | Jul 21 – Sep 15 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jun 30 – Aug 25 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | May 19 | — | Aug 11 – Oct 6 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 24 | May 19 | May 26 | Aug 25 – Sep 22 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jun 9 – Aug 11 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 24 | May 19 | May 26 | Jul 14 – Sep 15 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 24 | May 19 | May 26 | Aug 18 – Oct 13 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 19 | Sep 8 – Oct 13 | 110–150 |
| Sunflower | Mar 3 | May 19 | May 26 | Aug 4 – Sep 22 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Corn | — | May 19 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 1 | 60–90 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jun 9 – Jul 14 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 3 | May 19 | May 26 | Jul 28 – Oct 6 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 3 | May 19 | May 26 | Jul 28 – Oct 6 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Apr 28 | — | Jun 9 – Jul 14 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | May 5 | Jun 16 – Jul 21 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 24 | May 19 | May 26 | Aug 4 – Sep 22 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | May 19 | — | Jul 14 – Sep 8 | 50–65 |
| Zucchini | Mar 24 | May 19 | May 26 | Jul 14 – Sep 8 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Fayette County
22 fruits that grow well in Zone 4b with planting dates for Fayette County.
Show all 22 fruits with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Jun 2 | Sep 1 – Oct 27 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Jun 2 | — | 730–1095 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Jun 2 | — | 730–1095 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Jun 2 | Aug 11 – Sep 15 | 70–90 |
| Cranberries | — | — | Jun 2 | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | Jun 2 | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Jun 2 | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Jun 2 | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Jun 2 | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Jun 2 | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Jun 2 | Aug 11 – Oct 6 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Jun 2 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | Jun 2 | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Jun 2 | Aug 25 – Oct 6 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Jun 2 | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | Jun 2 | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | Jun 2 | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Jun 2 | — | 730–1825 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Jun 2 | — | 1095–2555 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Jun 2 | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Jun 2 | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Jun 2 | Sep 1 – Oct 27 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Fayette County
32 herbs that grow well in Zone 4b with planting dates for Fayette County.
Show all 32 herbs with planting dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | Apr 28 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | Apr 28 | Jul 28 – Sep 22 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 10 | May 12 | May 26 | Jul 21 – Sep 22 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 12 | Aug 11 – Oct 6 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | Apr 28 | Jun 23 – Aug 11 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | Apr 28 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 12 | Jul 14 – Sep 15 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | Apr 28 | Jun 30 – Sep 8 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | Apr 28 | Jun 9 – Aug 11 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 12 | Jul 14 – Sep 22 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | Apr 28 | Jun 9 – Aug 11 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 12 | Jul 14 – Sep 22 | 60–90 |
| Dill | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | Apr 28 | Jun 9 – Aug 11 | 40–60 |
| Echinacea | — | — | May 12 | Sep 15 – Oct 6 | 120–180 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | Apr 28 | Jun 30 – Sep 8 | 60–90 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | May 12 | Jul 14 – Sep 22 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | May 12 | Jul 28 – Sep 22 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | May 12 | Jul 21 – Sep 22 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | May 12 | Jul 14 – Sep 1 | 60–70 |
| Lovage | — | — | May 12 | Jul 21 – Sep 22 | 70–90 |
| Mint | — | — | May 12 | Jul 14 – Sep 22 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | May 12 | Jul 14 – Sep 22 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | Apr 28 | Jun 30 – Sep 1 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | May 12 | Jul 21 – Sep 22 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | May 12 | Jul 28 – Sep 22 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | May 12 | Jul 7 – Sep 1 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 24 | Apr 28 | Apr 28 | Jun 9 – Aug 11 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | May 12 | Jul 14 – Sep 22 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 10 | May 12 | May 26 | Jul 21 – Sep 22 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | May 12 | Jul 21 – Sep 22 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 12 | Sep 15 – Oct 6 | 120–180 |
| Yarrow | — | — | May 12 | Aug 11 – Oct 6 | 90–120 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Fayette County
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Fayette County.
Frequently Asked Questions
What planting zone is Fayette County, IA?
Fayette County is in USDA Hardiness Zone 4b. This zone classification determines which perennial plants survive winter and sets the baseline for frost timing across the county.
When is the last frost in Fayette County, IA?
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data, the median last spring frost in Fayette County falls around May 5. In 8 out of 10 years, last frost lands between April 22 and May 20 — a 28-day window of variability. Use May 20 as your conservative safe-to-plant date for frost-sensitive crops.
When is the first fall frost in Fayette County, IA?
The median first fall frost in Fayette County arrives around October 5. In cold years it can arrive as early as September 20; in mild years as late as October 15. Harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops — tomatoes, peppers, basil, squash — before this date.
How long is the growing season in Fayette County?
Fayette County has a frost-free growing season of approximately 153 days. This is enough time for most warm-season crops including tomatoes, peppers, and squash with proper timing. Climate records show the growing season is trending shorter by about 0.9 days per decade.
What is the soil like in Fayette County for gardening?
Fayette County has predominantly Silt Loam soil with a pH range of 6.2–6.8 and Moderately Well Drained drainage. Most vegetables and herbs grow well with standard composting and seasonal soil amendment.
What is grown commercially in Fayette County?
Fayette County has commercial agriculture that includes Corn, Soybeans, Hay, Oats, Hogs. These crops reflect the local climate and soil conditions — what succeeds commercially often translates well to home gardens in the same area.
Is Fayette County a good location for home gardening?
Fayette County scores 71/100 (Good) on our Microclimate Index, which combines frost reliability, drought pressure, soil challenge, elevation risk, and long-term climate trend. This is an above-average location for home gardening with relatively predictable growing conditions.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Fayette County gardeners in Zone 4b organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
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