Cedar Rapids, NE — Planting Guide for July
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
Your July game plan for Boone County, Nebraska
Your Boone County, Nebraska garden is entering a new phase. Here's what's on the schedule for July and why each task matters now.
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Indoor seed-starting week for peppers, begonias, and eggplant
A seed-starting mix and a sunny window (or a grow light) are all you need. Keep soil warm — around 70°F — for fast germination.
-
Bring in the basil, carrots, and cucumber
Check every 1–2 days. Many of these get tough or go to seed if you wait too long.
-
Plant your fall garden: carrots, kale, and lettuce
Your first frost is about 14 weeks away — plenty of time for these to mature.
Coming up in August — start thinking about
- First harvests: basil, cucumber, and green beans
- Fall sowing: alliums, crocus, and daffodils
Cedar Rapids has a classic four-season growing climate (Zone 5b). The last spring frost typically lands around April 27 and the first fall frost arrives around October 8 — a 164-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 Loam — the gold standard for vegetables. Add 2–3" of compost annually to maintain it and you'll outgrow most of your neighbors.
Cedar Rapids averages 26.3 drought weeks per year (US Drought Monitor, 2000–present, trend stable). Treat irrigation as a year-round system, not a summer add-on.
🌡️ USDA Zone
5b (-15°F to -10°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
April 27
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 8
📅 Growing Season
164 days
🌧️ Climate
Moderate 25.4" annual
💨 Wind
Unknown 0.0 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
26.3 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Cedar Rapids
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
The practical takeaway: Most vegetables want about 1 inch of water per week. Cedar Rapids gets 25" a year — months that hit that 1"/week need zero supplemental watering; months that fall short, the table tells you how much to add. Saves you from drowning roots and from drought-stressing plants into bolting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 0.7 in | 3 days | — | None |
| Feb | 0.8 in | 4 days | — | None |
| Mar | 1.9 in | 5 days | — | None |
| Apr | 2.3 in | 8 days | 2 in | High |
| May | 4.1 in | 9 days | 0.2 in | Low |
| Jun | 4.6 in | 7 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 3.6 in | 8 days | 0.7 in | Moderate |
| Aug | 3.4 in | 6 days | 0.9 in | Moderate |
| Sep | 2.4 in | 6 days | 1.9 in | High |
| Oct | 1.7 in | 4 days | 2.6 in | High |
| Nov | 0.8 in | 3 days | — | None |
| Dec | 0.7 in | 3 days | — | None |
Annual total: 27 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.
Cedar Rapids Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.5-7.2
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 14 | Oct 22 | 161 days |
| Cautious | May 3 | Oct 12 | 162 days |
| Average year | Apr 27 | Oct 8 | 164 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 22 | Oct 4 | 165 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 13 | Sep 24 | 164 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±30 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Yes — growing seasons are getting shorter here (about 1.9 days per decade). Use the "Conservative" dates and choose fast-maturing varieties.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Boone County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Boone 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 Boone County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Boone County University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension Extension Office
Phone: 402-472-2966
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 Boone County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Boone County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Boone 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 Boone County NE" or "garden center Boone 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 Boone County NE" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Boone County Gardeners" or "Nebraska 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 Cedar Rapids
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
What this means for you: Day length is the trigger that tells lettuce, spinach, and cilantro to bolt. In Cedar Rapids, knowing when that day-length threshold arrives helps you plant a final round in time to harvest before it bolts.
Longest Day
15 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
10.1 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 | 5.1 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.4 hr | 5.8 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 6.9 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.1 hr | 7.9 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.4 hr | 9.3 hr | Long day |
| June | 15 hr | 10 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.7 hr | 10.1 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.7 hr | 9.6 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.3 hr | 8.6 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.8 hr | 7 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.6 hr | 5.8 hr | Short day |
| December | 9 hr | 4.8 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Cedar Rapids
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Why this matters: Lettuce germinates at 35°F. Beans want 60°F. Tomatoes 65°F+. Soil temp, not air temp, is what plants feel. Cedar Rapids'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 | 15°F | 23°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 16°F | 23°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 28°F | 29°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 40°F | 40°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| May | 56°F | 51°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 67°F | 59°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 74°F | 68°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 76°F | 68°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 66°F | 66°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 53°F | 54°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 37°F | 43°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Dec | 24°F | 31°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 Cedar Rapids
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Quick context: Pest score isn't pass/fail. It's a planning input. Higher scores mean: more compost (resilient plants), wider spacing (air circulation), resistant varieties (built-in defense), and inspection (catch issues at egg stage).
Insect Pest Pressure
Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.
Disease Risk
Low disease risk — dry conditions reduce fungal problems.
Seasonal Risk
View 5 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Cabbage worms | Low | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Colorado potato beetle | Moderate | Jun, Jul |
| Flea beetles | Low | May, Jun, Jul |
| Slugs | Low | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
Organic pest management tips
- Maintain healthy soil with regular compost additions to build natural pest resistance
- Practice crop rotation annually to break pest cycles
- Encourage beneficial insects with flowering herbs like dill, fennel, and yarrow
Cover Crops for Cedar Rapids
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
Why it matters: Cover crops protect microbial life through winter and summer. Bare soil bakes; covered soil stays cooler, moister, and biologically active. The difference shows up in next year's crops.
Spring Cover Crops (2 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | May 6 | Aug 13 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| White clover | Mar 28 | Aug 13 | ✓ 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 21 | Sep 24 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Fall Cover Crops (5 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Daikon radish | Aug 14 | Apr 13 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 23 | Apr 13 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 5 | Apr 6 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 17 | Apr 13 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 15 | Apr 13 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Cedar Rapids
Why it matters: Pollinators avoid windy days. Cedar Rapids's 0.0 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: 16 mph Summer: 11 mph
Fall: 13 mph Winter: 14 mph
Prevailing wind: S. Windy area — plant a windbreak hedge on the S side of your garden.
Windbreak Benefit
7.5/10
Strongly recommended — a windbreak (fence, hedge, or row of tall crops like corn or sunflowers) will significantly improve garden yields.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (192 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Cedar Rapids
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
The practical takeaway: Captured rainwater is better for plants than tap water (no chlorine), works during water restrictions, and reduces stormwater runoff. Cedar Rapids's 25" annual rainfall is a meaningful pool — most homes could capture 10,000+ gallons a year with a decent system.
Annual Collection
13,456 gal
Per 1,000 sq ft of roof area (at 80% collection efficiency)
Recommended Setup
7 rain barrels (55 gal each)
For a typical 500 sq ft garden. Serious collectors: consider a 2,000 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
May, Jun, Jul, Aug
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Jan, Feb, Nov, 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 27.0 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 13,456 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Jan, Feb, Nov)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Cedar Rapids
105 vegetables matched to Zone 5b with planting dates calibrated for Cedar Rapids.
Show all 105 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 23 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Aug 3 – Sep 7 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Mar 2 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Aug 10 – Sep 28 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Jul 30 | Jun 1 – Aug 3 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 11 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Apr 13 | — | Jul 30 | Jun 8 – Jul 6 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Jul 30 | Aug 17 – Oct 12 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Mar 2 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jul 13 – Aug 24 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | May 4 | — | — | Aug 3 – Sep 21 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Jul 30 | Jun 8 – Jul 13 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Jul 30 | Jun 29 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Jul 30 | Jun 8 – Jul 13 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Jul 30 | Jul 27 – Sep 21 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 23 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Aug 10 – Sep 14 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Jul 30 | Jun 29 – Aug 24 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Mar 2 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Aug 3 – Sep 28 | 80–120 |
| Carrots | — | Apr 13 | — | Jul 30 | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Jul 30 | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Jul 30 | Aug 10 – Sep 14 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Jul 30 | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Jul 30 | Jun 29 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Jul 30 | Jun 22 – Aug 10 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Jul 30 | Jul 20 – Aug 31 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Jul 30 | Jun 29 – Aug 10 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Jul 30 | Jun 22 – Jul 20 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Mar 2 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Aug 3 – Sep 7 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Jul 30 | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | May 4 | — | — | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | May 4 | — | — | Jul 6 – Aug 17 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Jul 30 | May 11 – Jun 1 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 23 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jun 29 – Jul 27 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Apr 13 | — | Jul 30 | Sep 14 – Sep 28 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 23 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Apr 13 | — | Jul 30 | Jun 8 – Jul 6 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 23 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Aug 3 – Sep 7 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | May 4 | — | — | Jul 20 – Aug 31 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 16 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 21 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Jul 30 | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Jul 30 | Jun 22 – Jul 20 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Jul 30 | Jul 13 – Aug 24 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Mar 2 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jul 13 – Aug 24 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Aug 27 | Nov 26 – Feb 11 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | May 4 | — | — | Jun 29 – Aug 24 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 11 | — | Sep 14 – Oct 26 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 16 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jul 20 – Oct 26 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 23 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Aug 24 – Sep 28 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Mar 23 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Aug 10 – Sep 7 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Jul 30 | Jun 15 – Jul 13 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Jul 30 | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | May 4 | — | — | Aug 3 – Sep 7 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Jul 30 | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Jul 30 | Jun 1 – Jul 6 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Jul 30 | Jul 27 – Oct 12 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Jul 30 | Jul 20 – Aug 31 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Jul 30 | Jun 1 – Aug 10 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | May 4 | — | — | Jul 6 – Aug 17 | 60–90 |
| Mache | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Jul 30 | Jun 8 – Jul 13 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Mar 23 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 7 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Jul 30 | May 4 – Jun 1 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | Jul 30 | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Jul 30 | Jun 1 – Jun 29 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Jul 30 | Jun 1 – Aug 3 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Jul 30 | Jun 22 – Jul 27 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Mar 2 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 3 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Mar 2 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Jul 30 | Jul 27 – Sep 14 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Jul 30 | Jun 8 – Jul 6 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Apr 13 | — | Jul 30 | Jul 27 – Sep 7 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 23 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jun 29 – Jul 27 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Jul 30 | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 16 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 21 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Mar 2 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Mar 2 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 28 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 23 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Aug 10 – Sep 28 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Jul 30 | Jun 8 – Jul 13 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Jul 30 | Jun 29 – Aug 3 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Apr 13 | — | Jul 30 | May 11 – Jun 1 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 18 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Jul 30 | Jul 13 – Aug 24 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Apr 13 | — | Jul 30 | Jul 6 – Aug 10 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Apr 13 | — | Jul 30 | Jul 27 – Sep 7 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Jul 30 | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Jul 30 | Jun 22 – Jul 20 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Mar 2 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jul 13 – Aug 17 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Jul 30 | Jul 27 – Sep 14 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 9 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Mar 2 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Jul 30 | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | May 4 | — | — | Jul 27 – Sep 21 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 23 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Aug 10 – Sep 7 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Jul 30 | Jun 1 – Aug 3 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 23 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 31 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 23 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Aug 3 – Sep 28 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 11 | — | Aug 31 – Oct 26 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | May 4 | — | — | Jul 6 – Aug 17 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Mar 2 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Aug 10 – Sep 28 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Jul 30 | Jun 1 – Jul 6 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Mar 2 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 21 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Mar 2 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 21 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Apr 13 | — | Jul 30 | May 25 – Jun 29 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | Jul 30 | Jun 8 – Jul 13 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 23 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 7 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | May 4 | — | — | Jun 29 – Aug 24 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Mar 2 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Aug 10 – Sep 28 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Mar 2 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 17 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 23 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 24 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Cedar Rapids
27 fruits matched to Zone 5b with planting dates calibrated for Cedar Rapids.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 18 | — | Aug 17 – Nov 2 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | May 18 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 18 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | May 18 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 18 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Aug 31 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 18 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | May 18 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | May 18 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 18 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 18 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | May 18 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 18 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 21 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | May 18 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | May 18 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 18 | — | Aug 10 – Sep 21 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | May 18 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | May 18 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | May 18 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 18 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 18 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 18 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Quince | — | — | May 18 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 18 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 18 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 18 | — | Aug 17 – Nov 2 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Cedar Rapids
34 herbs matched to Zone 5b with planting dates calibrated for Cedar Rapids.
Show all 34 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | Jul 30 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | Jul 30 | Jul 20 – Oct 5 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 9 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jul 6 – Sep 7 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | May 4 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 19 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | Jul 30 | Jun 15 – Aug 3 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | Jul 30 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | May 4 | — | Jul 6 – Sep 7 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | Jul 30 | Jun 22 – Aug 31 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | Jul 30 | Jun 1 – Aug 3 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | May 4 | — | Jul 6 – Sep 14 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | Jul 30 | Jun 1 – Aug 3 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | May 4 | — | Jul 6 – Sep 14 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | Jul 30 | Aug 3 – Oct 5 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | Jul 30 | Jun 1 – Aug 3 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Mar 9 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 24 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | Jul 30 | Jun 22 – Aug 31 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | May 4 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 19 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | May 4 | — | Jul 6 – Sep 14 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | May 4 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | May 4 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 14 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | May 4 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 24 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | May 4 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 14 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | May 4 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 14 | 70–90 |
| Mint | — | — | May 4 | — | Jul 6 – Sep 14 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | May 4 | — | Jul 6 – Sep 14 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | Jul 30 | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | May 4 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 14 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | May 4 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 14 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | May 4 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 24 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 23 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | Jul 30 | Jun 1 – Aug 3 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | May 4 | — | Jul 6 – Sep 14 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 9 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jul 6 – Sep 7 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | May 4 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 14 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | May 4 | — | Sep 7 – Oct 19 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Cedar Rapids
51 flowers matched to Zone 5b with planting dates calibrated for Cedar Rapids.
Show all 51 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Mar 9 | May 4 | May 4 | — | Jun 29 – Sep 28 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Aug 27 | Oct 1 – Oct 22 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | Mar 30 | — | Apr 27 | — | Jun 1 – Jun 29 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Feb 23 | — | May 11 | — | Jul 27 – Oct 5 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Mar 16 | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 29 – Sep 14 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Feb 16 | — | May 4 | — | Jul 13 – Oct 5 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Feb 23 | Apr 27 | May 11 | — | Jul 27 – Nov 2 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Feb 23 | — | May 11 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 17 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Mar 16 | Apr 6 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 15 – Sep 14 | 50–70 |
| Celosia | Mar 23 | May 4 | May 4 | — | Jul 6 – Oct 12 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Feb 23 | May 11 | May 11 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 17 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Feb 23 | May 4 | May 11 | — | Jul 20 – Nov 2 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Mar 30 | Apr 27 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 6 – Oct 5 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Aug 27 | Jul 9 – Jul 30 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Aug 27 | Jul 16 – Aug 6 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 4 | — | Jul 27 – Oct 26 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Feb 23 | — | May 11 | — | Aug 3 – Nov 2 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Feb 23 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | — | Jun 1 – Aug 24 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Feb 23 | May 11 | May 11 | — | Aug 3 – Nov 2 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Feb 23 | May 11 | May 11 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 17 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Mar 2 | May 4 | May 4 | — | Jul 13 – Nov 2 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Feb 16 | — | May 4 | — | Jul 13 – Oct 5 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | May 4 | May 4 | — | Jul 27 – Oct 26 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Feb 16 | — | May 11 | — | Aug 3 – Nov 2 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Aug 27 | Aug 6 – Sep 3 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Feb 16 | — | May 11 | — | Jul 27 – Oct 19 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Mar 2 | — | May 4 | — | Jul 13 – Oct 12 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | May 11 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 10 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Mar 30 | — | — | Jun 8 – Aug 3 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Feb 16 | — | May 18 | — | Jul 27 – Sep 14 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | May 11 | — | Jul 20 – Oct 19 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Feb 16 | — | Apr 20 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 31 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Feb 23 | May 11 | May 11 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 17 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Mar 16 | May 4 | May 4 | — | Jun 29 – Sep 28 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 4 | — | Jun 29 – Oct 12 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Feb 16 | — | Apr 27 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | May 11 | — | Jul 20 – Aug 31 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Mar 2 | — | May 4 | — | Jul 13 – Oct 12 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Feb 23 | May 11 | May 11 | — | Jul 27 – Oct 19 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 23 | May 4 | May 4 | — | Jun 22 – Sep 28 | 50–70 |
| Roses | Feb 16 | — | May 11 | — | Jul 27 – Nov 2 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Feb 23 | — | May 4 | — | Jul 13 – Oct 12 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Feb 23 | — | May 11 | — | Sep 7 – Nov 16 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 6 – Sep 14 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Apr 6 | May 4 | May 4 | — | Jul 27 – Oct 12 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Mar 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 27 | — | Jun 8 – Aug 17 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | Mar 16 | Mar 23 | Apr 27 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 14 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Aug 27 | Jul 30 – Aug 20 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Feb 9 | — | May 4 | — | Jul 13 – Oct 5 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Feb 23 | Apr 27 | May 11 | — | Jul 20 – Nov 2 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Mar 30 | May 4 | May 4 | — | Jul 13 – Oct 12 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Cedar Rapids
ZIP Codes in Cedar Rapids
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 Boone County.
Your Boone County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Boone 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