When to plant Cucumber in Union County, IA
Union County's spring Cucumber window runs April 30 through May 21. time plantings around the expected last-frost window for best survival.
When to Plant Cucumber in Union County, IA
Cucumbers are a warm-season vine crop available in slicing and pickling varieties. They are prolific producers when given warmth, moisture, and a trellis to climb.
Union County, Iowa is in USDA Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is April 23 and the first fall frost is October 11, giving you a growing season of approximately 171 days.
At an elevation of 1,311 feet, Union County receives approximately 39 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 83°F, so choose short-season varieties of Cucumber to ensure they mature before fall.
Union County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.3-7.3
Drainage
Well Drained
Monthly Watering Guide for Cucumber
Cucumber needs approximately 1 inches of water per week (4.3" per month). Here's how your county's rainfall compares month by month.
| Month | Cucumber Needs | Rainfall | You Supplement | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | — | 1.8" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 1.8" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | — | 2.7" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Apr | 4.3" | 4.1" | 0.2" | 💧 Light watering |
| May | 4.3" | 4.1" | 0.2" | 💧 Light watering |
| Jun | 4.3" | 4.7" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jul | 4.3" | 4.2" | 0.1" | 💧 Light watering |
| Aug | 4.3" | 4" | 0.3" | 💧 Light watering |
| Sep | 4.3" | 3.4" | 0.9" | 💧 Light watering |
| Oct | 4.3" | 3" | 1.3" | 💧 Light watering |
| Nov | — | 2.8" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Dec | — | 2.3" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Apr–Oct in Union County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Cucumber Planting Timeline — Union County, IA
Cucumber Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 19 | Mar 19 – Apr 2 |
| Transplant Outdoors | May 7 | May 7 – May 21 |
| Direct Sow | April 30 | Apr 30 – May 21 |
| Harvest | July 2 | Jul 2 – Aug 27 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 24" apart · Rows 48" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Start Indoors |
| April | Start Indoors Direct Sow |
| May | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| June | — |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
High — keep soil consistently moist
📅 Days to Maturity
50–70 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 5b
📆 Growing Season
171 days in Union County
Growing Tips for Union County
Direct sow after last frost or start indoors 3 weeks early. Provide a trellis for vining types to save space and improve air circulation. Harvest frequently to encourage production.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Cucumber in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Cucumber in Union County, IA?
Union County is in Zone 5b with an average last frost of April 23. Plan your Cucumber planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Union County, IA?
Union County, Iowa is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is April 23 and first fall frost is October 11.
When should I plant Cucumber in Union County, IA?
In Union County, IA, plant Cucumber after the last frost (around April 23) and before the first frost (around October 11). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Union County, IA for Cucumber?
Union County sits in USDA Zone 5b. Cucumber grows reliably in zones 3a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Cucumber grow in Union County's climate?
Yes — Cucumber grows well in Union County's temperate climate. Union County averages a 171-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 23 and first frost around October 11.
Your Union County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Union 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.