When to plant Cilantro in Lee County, IA
The best window to plant Cilantro in Lee County, is April 2–April 23, when soil warms to 50°F. Last frost typically hits April 16; first frost October 18. A second sowing from August 9 to August 23 extends the harvest into fall.
When to Plant Cilantro in Lee County, IA
Cilantro is a dual-purpose herb providing fresh leaves (cilantro) and dried seeds (coriander). It bolts quickly in heat, producing flowers beloved by beneficial insects.
Lee County, Iowa is in USDA Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is April 16 and the first fall frost is October 18, giving you a growing season of approximately 185 days.
At an elevation of 1,393 feet, Lee County receives approximately 36.8 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 84°F, so choose short-season varieties of Cilantro to ensure they mature before fall.
Lee County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Cilantro Planting Timeline — Lee County, IA
Cilantro Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 12 | Mar 12 – Mar 26 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 9 | Apr 9 – Apr 23 |
| Direct Sow | April 2 | Apr 2 – Apr 23 |
| Harvest | May 21 | May 21 – Jul 23 |
| Fall Sowing | August 9 | Aug 9 – Aug 23 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Start Indoors |
| April | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| May | Harvest |
| June | Harvest |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Fall Sowing |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Partial Shade (3-6 hours)
💧 Water
Moderate — regular watering
📅 Days to Maturity
40–60 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 6a
📆 Growing Season
185 days in Lee County
Growing Tips for Lee County
Succession sow every 2-3 weeks. Provide afternoon shade in warm weather. Harvest leaves before flowering or allow some plants to go to seed for coriander and self-sowing.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Cilantro in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Cilantro in Lee County, IA?
Lee County is in Zone 6a with an average last frost of April 16. Plan your Cilantro planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Lee County, IA?
Lee County, Iowa is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is April 16 and first fall frost is October 18.
When should I plant Cilantro in Lee County, IA?
In Lee County, IA, plant Cilantro after the last frost (around April 16) and before the first frost (around October 18). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Lee County, IA for Cilantro?
Lee County sits in USDA Zone 6a. Cilantro grows reliably in zones 2a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Cilantro grow in Lee County's climate?
Yes — Cilantro grows well in Lee County's temperate climate. Lee County averages a 185-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 16 and first frost around October 18.
Your Lee County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Lee 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.