Malcom, IA — Planting Guide for June
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Your June game plan for Malcom, IA
June rewards gardeners who work with the weather, not against it. Here's how to stay in step this month in Malcom, IA.
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Start basil, cucumber, and kale under lights
Your window is short. These crops want several weeks of indoor growth before they go outside.
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It's harvest week for carrots, kale, and lettuce
Don't tug. Use scissors or pruners for clean cuts — torn stems invite disease.
Get ahead of July
- Starting indoors: peppers, astilbe, and begonias
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
- Fall sowing: carrots, kale, and lettuce
Malcom has a classic four-season growing climate (Zone 5b). The last spring frost typically lands around May 2 and the first fall frost arrives around October 7 — a 158-day frost-free season that's long enough for tomatoes, peppers, melons, and a full succession of cool-weather crops on either side. The trick is timing: start warm-season seedlings indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost, harden them off, and plant out the week after your local frost date is statistically safe.
Soils trend Silt Loam — the gold standard for vegetables. Add 2–3" of compost annually to maintain it and you'll outgrow most of your neighbors.
Malcom averages 20.6 drought weeks per year (US Drought Monitor, 2000–present, trend worsening). Treat irrigation as a year-round system, not a summer add-on.
🌡️ USDA Zone
5b (-15°F to -10°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
May 2
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 7
📅 Growing Season
158 days
🌧️ Climate
Unknown 0.0" annual
💨 Wind
Breezy 10.4 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
20.6 wk/yr trend worsening
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Malcom
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
Quick context: A drip irrigation system pays for itself in 1-2 seasons in any climate. Malcom's 0" annual rainfall determines whether you'll run it weekly (dry zones) or maybe just during summer dry spells (wet zones).
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 1.4 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.8 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Mar | 2.6 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Apr | 3.7 in | 10 days | 0.6 in | Moderate |
| May | 4.1 in | 9 days | 0.2 in | Low |
| Jun | 4.8 in | 10 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 3.4 in | 8 days | 0.9 in | Moderate |
| Aug | 3.7 in | 8 days | 0.6 in | Moderate |
| Sep | 2.8 in | 7 days | 1.5 in | Moderate |
| Oct | 3 in | 8 days | 1.3 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 2.7 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Dec | 1.9 in | 7 days | — | None |
Annual total: 35.9 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.
Malcom Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.9-6.8
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 15 | Oct 16 | 154 days |
| Cautious | May 5 | Oct 12 | 160 days |
| Average year | May 2 | Oct 7 | 158 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 22 | Oct 1 | 162 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 16 | Sep 21 | 158 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±29 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Poweshiek County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Poweshiek 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 Poweshiek County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Poweshiek 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 Poweshiek County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Poweshiek County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Poweshiek 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 Poweshiek County IA" or "garden center Poweshiek 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 Poweshiek County IA" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Poweshiek 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 in Malcom
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
The practical takeaway: The longest day at Malcom's latitude gets longer the further north you go. Strawberries, garlic, onions all care. The shortest day gets shorter — which limits winter growing for greens without artificial light.
Longest Day
15 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
9.9 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 | 9.3 hr | 3.7 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.4 hr | 4.5 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 5.9 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.1 hr | 6.8 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.4 hr | 8.5 hr | Long day |
| June | 15 hr | 9.2 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.7 hr | 9.9 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.7 hr | 8.7 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.3 hr | 7.2 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.8 hr | 5.4 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.6 hr | 4 hr | Short day |
| December | 9 hr | 3.5 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Malcom
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
The practical takeaway: Lettuce germinates at 35°F. Beans want 60°F. Tomatoes 65°F+. Soil temp, not air temp, is what plants feel. Malcom's monthly curve tells you when each crop actually has the conditions to take off.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from Jun through Sep.
Best Month to Compost
Jun
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 | 22°F | 30°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 25°F | 29°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 32°F | 34°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 46°F | 44°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| May | 58°F | 53°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 70°F | 64°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 75°F | 70°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 78°F | 72°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 69°F | 67°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 58°F | 60°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 44°F | 49°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Dec | 29°F | 36°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 Malcom
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
For new gardeners: Pollinators are the good bugs. Pest pressure is the bad bugs. Malcom's climate makes both more abundant in warm humid regions, and rarer in cold dry ones — plan habitat to encourage the good while managing the bad.
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 6 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Japanese beetles | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash bugs | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Tomato hornworms | Low | Jul, Aug |
| Cabbage loopers | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Slugs | Low | Apr, May, Jun |
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 Malcom
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
Quick context: The "chop and drop" approach to cover crops: cut them down right before flowering, let them lay on the surface as mulch, plant your vegetables through the mulch. Less work, healthier soil.
Spring Cover Crops (3 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | May 13 | Aug 12 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | May 8 | Aug 5 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Apr 5 | Aug 12 | ✓ 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 18 | Sep 23 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Fall Cover Crops (6 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austrian winter peas | Aug 11 | Apr 18 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Daikon radish | Aug 10 | Apr 18 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 12 | Apr 11 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Aug 30 | Apr 18 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 14 | Apr 11 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 3 | Apr 11 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Malcom
Why it matters: Pollinators avoid windy days. Malcom's 10.4 mph average wind isn't enough to stop bees and butterflies — but plant fruiting crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) in protected microclimates and you'll see noticeably better fruit set.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 12 mph Summer: 9 mph
Fall: 11 mph Winter: 12 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
5.2/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (173 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Malcom
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
What this means for you: A gravity-fed rain barrel ($75) is the easy entry. A larger cistern ($500-1500) covers a whole growing season. Malcom's 0" annual rainfall determines whether the larger system is overkill or essential.
Annual Collection
17,892 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 1,500 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
Apr, May, Jun, Aug
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 35.9 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 17,892 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
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Malcom
105 vegetables matched to Zone 5b with planting dates calibrated for Malcom.
Show all 105 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 28 | May 9 | May 16 | — | Aug 8 – Sep 12 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 7 | May 9 | May 16 | — | Aug 15 – Oct 3 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | May 2 | Jul 29 | Jun 6 – Aug 8 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 16 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Apr 18 | — | Jul 29 | Jun 13 – Jul 11 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | May 2 | Jul 29 | Aug 22 – Oct 17 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Mar 7 | May 9 | May 16 | — | Jul 18 – Aug 29 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | May 9 | — | — | Aug 8 – Sep 26 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | May 2 | Jul 29 | Jun 13 – Jul 18 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | May 2 | Jul 29 | Jul 4 – Aug 15 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | May 2 | Jul 29 | Jun 13 – Jul 18 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | May 2 | Jul 29 | Aug 1 – Sep 26 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 28 | May 9 | May 16 | — | Aug 15 – Sep 19 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | May 2 | Jul 29 | Jul 4 – Aug 29 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Mar 7 | May 9 | May 16 | — | Aug 8 – Oct 3 | 80–120 |
| Carrots | — | Apr 18 | — | Jul 29 | Jun 20 – Jul 25 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | May 2 | Jul 29 | Jun 27 – Aug 29 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | May 2 | Jul 29 | Aug 15 – Sep 19 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | May 2 | Jul 29 | Jul 25 – Sep 19 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | May 2 | Jul 29 | Jul 4 – Aug 15 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | May 2 | Jul 29 | Jun 27 – Aug 15 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | May 2 | Jul 29 | Jul 25 – Sep 5 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | May 2 | Jul 29 | Jul 4 – Aug 15 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | May 2 | Jul 29 | Jun 27 – Jul 25 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 7 | May 9 | May 16 | — | Aug 8 – Sep 12 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | May 2 | Jul 29 | Jun 27 – Aug 29 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | May 9 | — | — | Jul 11 – Sep 5 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | May 9 | — | — | Jul 11 – Aug 22 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | May 2 | Jul 29 | May 16 – Jun 6 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 28 | May 9 | May 16 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 1 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Apr 18 | — | Jul 29 | Sep 19 – Oct 3 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 28 | May 9 | May 16 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 5 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Apr 18 | — | Jul 29 | Jun 13 – Jul 11 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 28 | May 9 | May 16 | — | Aug 8 – Sep 12 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | May 9 | — | — | Jul 25 – Sep 5 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 21 | May 9 | May 16 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 26 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | May 2 | Jul 29 | Jun 20 – Jul 25 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | May 2 | Jul 29 | Jun 27 – Jul 25 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | May 2 | Jul 29 | Jul 18 – Aug 29 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 7 | May 9 | May 16 | — | Jul 18 – Aug 29 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Aug 26 | Nov 25 – Feb 10 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | May 9 | — | — | Jul 4 – Aug 29 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 16 | — | Sep 19 – Oct 31 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 21 | May 9 | May 16 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 31 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 28 | May 9 | May 16 | — | Aug 29 – Oct 3 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Mar 28 | May 9 | May 16 | — | Aug 15 – Sep 12 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | May 2 | Jul 29 | Jun 20 – Jul 18 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | May 2 | Jul 29 | Jun 27 – Aug 22 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | May 9 | — | — | Aug 8 – Sep 12 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | May 2 | Jul 29 | Jun 20 – Jul 25 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | May 2 | Jul 29 | Jun 6 – Jul 11 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | May 2 | Jul 29 | Aug 1 – Oct 17 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | May 2 | Jul 29 | Jul 25 – Sep 5 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | May 2 | Jul 29 | Jun 6 – Aug 15 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | May 9 | — | — | Jul 11 – Aug 22 | 60–90 |
| Mache | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | May 2 | Jul 29 | Jun 13 – Jul 18 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Mar 28 | May 9 | May 16 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 12 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | May 2 | Jul 29 | May 9 – Jun 6 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jul 29 | Jun 20 – Aug 15 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | May 2 | Jul 29 | Jun 6 – Jul 4 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | May 2 | Jul 29 | Jun 6 – Aug 8 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | May 2 | Jul 29 | Jun 27 – Aug 1 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Mar 7 | May 9 | May 16 | — | Jul 11 – Aug 8 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Mar 7 | May 9 | May 16 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 5 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | May 2 | Jul 29 | Aug 1 – Sep 19 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | May 2 | Jul 29 | Jun 13 – Jul 11 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Apr 18 | — | Jul 29 | Aug 1 – Sep 12 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 28 | May 9 | May 16 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 1 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | May 2 | Jul 29 | Jun 27 – Aug 22 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 21 | May 9 | May 16 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 26 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 7 | May 9 | May 16 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 5 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 7 | May 9 | May 16 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 3 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 28 | May 9 | May 16 | — | Aug 15 – Oct 3 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | May 2 | Jul 29 | Jun 13 – Jul 18 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | May 2 | Jul 29 | Jul 4 – Aug 8 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Apr 18 | — | Jul 29 | May 16 – Jun 6 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 23 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | May 2 | Jul 29 | Jul 18 – Aug 29 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Apr 18 | — | Jul 29 | Jul 11 – Aug 15 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Apr 18 | — | Jul 29 | Aug 1 – Sep 12 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | May 2 | Jul 29 | Jul 11 – Sep 5 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | May 2 | Jul 29 | Jun 27 – Jul 25 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 7 | May 9 | May 16 | — | Jul 18 – Aug 22 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | May 2 | Jul 29 | Aug 1 – Sep 19 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 14 | May 9 | May 16 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 5 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 7 | May 9 | May 16 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 5 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | May 2 | Jul 29 | Jun 27 – Aug 22 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | May 9 | — | — | Aug 1 – Sep 26 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 28 | May 9 | May 16 | — | Aug 15 – Sep 12 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | May 2 | Jul 29 | Jun 6 – Aug 8 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 28 | May 9 | May 16 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 5 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 28 | May 9 | May 16 | — | Aug 8 – Oct 3 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 16 | — | Sep 5 – Oct 31 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | May 9 | — | — | Jul 11 – Aug 22 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Mar 7 | May 9 | May 16 | — | Aug 15 – Oct 3 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | May 2 | Jul 29 | Jun 6 – Jul 11 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 7 | May 9 | May 16 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 26 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 7 | May 9 | May 16 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 26 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Apr 18 | — | Jul 29 | May 30 – Jul 4 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | May 2 | Jul 29 | Jun 13 – Jul 18 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 28 | May 9 | May 16 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 12 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | May 9 | — | — | Jul 4 – Aug 29 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Mar 7 | May 9 | May 16 | — | Aug 15 – Oct 3 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Mar 7 | May 9 | May 16 | — | Jul 11 – Aug 22 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 28 | May 9 | May 16 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 29 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Malcom
27 fruits matched to Zone 5b with planting dates calibrated for Malcom.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 23 | — | Aug 22 – Nov 7 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | May 23 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 23 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | May 23 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 23 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 23 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 5 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 23 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | May 23 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | May 23 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 23 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 23 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | May 23 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 23 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 23 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 26 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | May 23 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | May 23 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 23 | — | Aug 15 – Sep 26 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | May 23 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | May 23 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | May 23 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 23 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 23 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 23 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Quince | — | — | May 23 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 23 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 23 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 23 | — | Aug 22 – Nov 7 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Malcom
34 herbs matched to Zone 5b with planting dates calibrated for Malcom.
Show all 34 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jul 29 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jul 29 | Jul 25 – Oct 10 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 14 | May 9 | May 16 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 12 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 9 | — | Aug 8 – Oct 24 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jul 29 | Jun 20 – Aug 8 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jul 29 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 9 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 12 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jul 29 | Jun 27 – Sep 5 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jul 29 | Jun 6 – Aug 8 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 9 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 19 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jul 29 | Jun 6 – Aug 8 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 9 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 19 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jul 29 | Aug 8 – Oct 10 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jul 29 | Jun 6 – Aug 8 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Mar 14 | May 9 | May 16 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 29 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jul 29 | Jun 27 – Sep 5 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | May 9 | — | Aug 8 – Oct 24 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | May 9 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 19 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | May 9 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 19 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | May 9 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 19 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | May 9 | — | Jul 11 – Aug 29 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | May 9 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 19 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | May 9 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 19 | 70–90 |
| Mint | — | — | May 9 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 19 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | May 9 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 19 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jul 29 | Jun 27 – Aug 29 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | May 9 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 19 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | May 9 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 19 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | May 9 | — | Jul 4 – Aug 29 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 28 | Apr 18 | Apr 25 | Jul 29 | Jun 6 – Aug 8 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | May 9 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 19 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 14 | May 9 | May 16 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 12 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | May 9 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 19 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 9 | — | Sep 12 – Oct 24 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Malcom
51 flowers matched to Zone 5b with planting dates calibrated for Malcom.
Show all 51 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Mar 14 | May 9 | May 9 | — | Jul 4 – Oct 3 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Aug 26 | Sep 30 – Oct 21 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | Apr 4 | — | May 2 | — | Jun 6 – Jul 4 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Feb 28 | — | May 16 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 10 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | May 2 | — | Jul 4 – Sep 19 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Feb 21 | — | May 9 | — | Jul 18 – Oct 10 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Feb 28 | May 2 | May 16 | — | Aug 1 – Nov 7 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Feb 28 | — | May 16 | — | Jul 11 – Aug 22 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Mar 21 | Apr 11 | May 2 | — | Jun 20 – Sep 19 | 50–70 |
| Celosia | Mar 28 | May 9 | May 9 | — | Jul 11 – Oct 17 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Feb 28 | May 16 | May 16 | — | Jul 11 – Aug 22 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Feb 28 | May 9 | May 16 | — | Jul 25 – Nov 7 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Apr 4 | May 2 | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Oct 10 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Aug 26 | Jul 8 – Jul 29 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Aug 26 | Jul 15 – Aug 5 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Apr 4 | May 9 | May 9 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 31 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Feb 28 | — | May 16 | — | Aug 8 – Nov 7 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Feb 28 | Apr 4 | Apr 18 | — | Jun 6 – Aug 29 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Feb 28 | May 16 | May 16 | — | Aug 8 – Nov 7 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Feb 28 | May 16 | May 16 | — | Jul 11 – Aug 22 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Mar 7 | May 9 | May 9 | — | Jul 18 – Nov 7 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Feb 21 | — | May 9 | — | Jul 18 – Oct 10 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | May 9 | May 9 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 31 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Feb 21 | — | May 16 | — | Aug 8 – Nov 7 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Aug 26 | Aug 5 – Sep 2 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Feb 21 | — | May 16 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 24 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Mar 7 | — | May 9 | — | Jul 18 – Oct 17 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | May 16 | — | Jul 11 – Aug 15 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Apr 4 | — | — | Jun 13 – Aug 8 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Feb 21 | — | May 23 | — | Aug 1 – Sep 19 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | May 16 | — | Jul 25 – Oct 24 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Feb 21 | — | Apr 25 | — | Jun 20 – Sep 5 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Feb 28 | May 16 | May 16 | — | Jul 11 – Aug 22 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Mar 21 | May 9 | May 9 | — | Jul 4 – Oct 3 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Apr 4 | May 9 | May 9 | — | Jul 4 – Oct 17 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Feb 21 | — | May 2 | — | Jun 27 – Aug 29 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | May 16 | — | Jul 25 – Sep 5 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Mar 7 | — | May 9 | — | Jul 18 – Oct 17 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Feb 28 | May 16 | May 16 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 24 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 28 | May 9 | May 9 | — | Jun 27 – Oct 3 | 50–70 |
| Roses | Feb 21 | — | May 16 | — | Aug 1 – Nov 7 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Feb 28 | — | May 9 | — | Jul 18 – Oct 17 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Feb 28 | — | May 16 | — | Sep 12 – Nov 21 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Feb 21 | Apr 18 | May 2 | — | Jul 11 – Sep 19 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Apr 11 | May 9 | May 9 | — | Aug 1 – Oct 17 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Mar 14 | Apr 18 | May 2 | — | Jun 13 – Aug 22 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | Mar 21 | Mar 28 | May 2 | — | Jul 18 – Sep 19 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Aug 26 | Jul 29 – Aug 19 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Feb 14 | — | May 9 | — | Jul 18 – Oct 10 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Feb 28 | May 2 | May 16 | — | Jul 25 – Nov 7 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Apr 4 | May 9 | May 9 | — | Jul 18 – Oct 17 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Malcom
ZIP Codes in Malcom
Click any ZIP to see its specific frost, soil, and climate measurements (some ZIPs differ noticeably from the town aggregate):
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Poweshiek County.
Your Poweshiek County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Poweshiek 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.
The Gardener's Encyclopedia to Companion Planting
The pairings that make vegetables, herbs, and flowers grow better — and the ones that quietly wreck a bed.
- Proven pairings for 200+ vegetables, herbs, flowers, and fruits
- Full seed-starting + planting schedule with timing and spacing
- Bonus: square-foot gardening guide + printable seasonal planners
Seed Saving & Storage Guide
Most saved seeds go bad before next season. This shows exactly when to pick, how to dry, and where to store seeds from 200 plants so yours don't.
- 200 plants, step-by-step: life cycle, pollination type, isolation
- Exact temperature + humidity ranges that keep seeds viable
- Bonus: searchable Google Sheets tracker + custom GPT assistant
Composting Guide for Homesteaders
Turn kitchen scraps and yard waste into compost that actually feeds the garden — instead of a pile that smells, attracts pests, and never breaks down.
- 14 sections on composting methods, soil science, and troubleshooting
- The 7-step hot-compost system from start to finish
- Bonus tools: troubleshooting chart, safety guide, monitoring log