When to plant Cucumber in Washington County, IA
Washington County's spring Cucumber window runs April 28 through May 19. time plantings around the expected last-frost window for best survival.
When to Plant Cucumber in Washington 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.
Washington County, Iowa is in USDA Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is April 21 and the first fall frost is October 14, giving you a growing season of approximately 176 days.
At an elevation of 542 feet, Washington County receives approximately 30.7 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.
Washington County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Cucumber Planting Timeline — Washington County, IA
Cucumber Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 17 | Mar 17 – Mar 31 |
| Transplant Outdoors | May 5 | May 5 – May 19 |
| Direct Sow | April 28 | Apr 28 – May 19 |
| Harvest | June 30 | Jun 30 – Aug 25 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 24" apart · Rows 48" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Start Indoors |
| April | Direct Sow |
| May | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| June | Harvest |
| 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
176 days in Washington County
Growing Tips for Washington 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 Washington County, IA?
Washington County is in Zone 5b with an average last frost of April 21. Plan your Cucumber planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Washington County, IA?
Washington County, Iowa is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is April 21 and first fall frost is October 14.
When should I plant Cucumber in Washington County, IA?
In Washington County, IA, plant Cucumber after the last frost (around April 21) and before the first frost (around October 14). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Washington County, IA for Cucumber?
Washington 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 Washington County's climate?
Yes — Cucumber grows well in Washington County's temperate climate. Washington County averages a 176-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 21 and first frost around October 14.
Your Washington County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Washington 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.