When to plant Eggplant in Monroe County, IA
In Monroe County, plant Eggplant in spring between May 3 and May 24, once soil temps hold above 50°F. Monroe County's last frost averages April 26, so time plantings around the expected last-frost window for best survival. For a fall crop, sow between and — roughly 65–85 days before the first frost on October 13.
When to Plant Eggplant in Monroe County, IA
Eggplant is a heat-loving solanaceous crop that produces glossy fruits in purple, white, or striped varieties. It requires long, warm growing seasons for best production.
Monroe County, Iowa is in USDA Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is April 26 and the first fall frost is October 13, giving you a growing season of approximately 170 days.
At an elevation of 968 feet, Monroe County receives approximately 32.5 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 87°F, providing good warmth for Eggplant during the growing season.
Monroe County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
How Much Eggplant to Grow
For a family of 4, plant approximately 8 eggplant plants in about 16 sq ft. In Monroe County's 170-day season, you'll have plenty of time for a full harvest. Plan your garden layout →
Eggplant Planting Timeline — Monroe County, IA
Eggplant Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | February 15 | Feb 15 – Mar 1 |
| Transplant Outdoors | May 10 | May 10 – May 24 |
| Direct Sow | May 3 | May 3 – May 24 |
| Harvest | July 19 | Jul 19 – Sep 20 |
Plant 1" deep · 30" apart · Rows 42" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | Start Indoors |
| March | Start Indoors |
| April | — |
| May | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| June | — |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| September | Harvest |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
Moderate — regular watering
📅 Days to Maturity
65–85 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 5.5–7 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 5b
📆 Growing Season
170 days in Monroe County
Growing Tips for Monroe County
Start seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before last frost. Transplant only after nighttime temperatures stay above 55F. Mulch to retain moisture and warmth around roots.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Eggplant in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Eggplant in Monroe County, IA?
Monroe County is in Zone 5b with an average last frost of April 26. Plan your Eggplant planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Monroe County, IA?
Monroe County, Iowa is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is April 26 and first fall frost is October 13.
When should I plant Eggplant in Monroe County, IA?
In Monroe County, IA, plant Eggplant after the last frost (around April 26) and before the first frost (around October 13). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Monroe County, IA for Eggplant?
Monroe County sits in USDA Zone 5b. Eggplant grows reliably in zones 5a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Eggplant grow in Monroe County's climate?
Yes — Eggplant grows well in Monroe County's temperate climate. Monroe County averages a 170-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 26 and first frost around October 13.
Your Monroe County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Monroe 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.