When to plant Lovage in Marion County, IA
Marion County's short 159-day growing season means one Lovage planting between May 8 and May 22. No fall crop in Zone 5b.
When to Plant Lovage in Marion County, IA
Lovage is a large perennial herb with a celery-like flavor that can grow 4-6 feet tall. All parts are edible including the leaves, stems, seeds, and roots.
Marion County, Iowa is in USDA Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is May 1 and the first fall frost is October 7, giving you a growing season of approximately 159 days.
At an elevation of 971 feet, Marion County receives approximately 33.2 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 84°F, so choose short-season varieties of Lovage to ensure they mature before fall.
Marion County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Lovage Planting Timeline — Marion County, IA
Lovage Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | May 8 | May 8 – May 22 |
| Harvest | July 17 | Jul 17 – Sep 18 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | — |
| May | Transplant Outdoors |
| June | — |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| September | Harvest |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Partial Shade (3-6 hours)
💧 Water
Moderate — regular watering
📅 Days to Maturity
70–90 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 5b
📆 Growing Season
159 days in Marion County
Growing Tips for Marion County
Start seeds indoors or direct sow in spring. One plant is usually enough for a family. Harvest outer stems and leaves as needed. Divide clumps every 3-4 years.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Lovage in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Lovage in Marion County, IA?
Marion County is in Zone 5b with an average last frost of May 1. Plan your Lovage planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Marion County, IA?
Marion County, Iowa is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is May 1 and first fall frost is October 7.
When should I plant Lovage in Marion County, IA?
In Marion County, IA, plant Lovage after the last frost (around May 1) and before the first frost (around October 7). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Marion County, IA for Lovage?
Marion County sits in USDA Zone 5b. Lovage grows reliably in zones 3a through 8b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Lovage grow in Marion County's climate?
Yes — Lovage grows well in Marion County's temperate climate. Marion County averages a 159-day frost-free season, with last frost around May 1 and first frost around October 7.
Your Marion County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Marion 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.