When to plant Thyme in Lucas County, IA
Lucas County sits in cold Zone 5b. Plant Thyme April 28–May 12 for the single annual harvest; the October 13 first frost closes the window.
When to Plant Thyme in Lucas 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.
Lucas County, Iowa is in USDA Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is April 21 and the first fall frost is October 13, giving you a growing season of approximately 175 days.
At an elevation of 638 feet, Lucas County receives approximately 41.6 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 87°F, providing good warmth for Thyme during the growing season.
Lucas County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Thyme Planting Timeline — Lucas County, IA
Thyme Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | April 28 | Apr 28 – May 12 |
| Harvest | July 7 | Jul 7 – Sep 8 |
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
175 days in Lucas County
Growing Tips for Lucas 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 Lucas County, IA?
Lucas County is in Zone 5b with an average last frost of April 21. Plan your Thyme planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Lucas County, IA?
Lucas County, Iowa is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is April 21 and first fall frost is October 13.
When should I plant Thyme in Lucas County, IA?
In Lucas County, IA, plant Thyme after the last frost (around April 21) and before the first frost (around October 13). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Lucas County, IA for Thyme?
Lucas 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 Lucas County's climate?
Yes — Thyme grows well in Lucas County's temperate climate. Lucas County averages a 175-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 21 and first frost around October 13.
Your Lucas County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Lucas 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.