When to Plant Thyme in Chickasaw County, IA
Thyme is a low-growing perennial herb with tiny, aromatic leaves and a warm, earthy flavor. It is one of the most versatile culinary and medicinal herbs.
Chickasaw County, Iowa is in USDA Zone 4b. The average last spring frost is May 3 and the first fall frost is October 5, giving you a growing season of approximately 155 days.
At an elevation of 1,139 feet, Chickasaw County receives approximately 37.8 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 81°F, so choose short-season varieties of Thyme to ensure they mature before fall.
Chickasaw County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6-6.8
Drainage
Well Drained
Plant Planting Risk Windows
Percentages indicate frost risk at transplant. The 70% safe window means there is a 30% chance of frost after transplant — suitable for cold-hardy crops or gardeners with frost protection. The 90% safe window is best for tender plants.
Plant Water Budget
Water stress score is 6/10 — consider drought-tolerant varieties and mulching
Thyme Planting Timeline — Chickasaw County, IA
Thyme Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | May 10 | May 10 – May 24 |
| Harvest | July 19 | Jul 19 – Sep 20 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | — |
| May | Transplant Outdoors |
| June | — |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| September | Harvest |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
Water
Low — drought tolerant
Days to Maturity
70–90 days
Soil pH
6 – 8
USDA Zone
Zone 4b
Growing Season
155 days
Growing Tips for Chickasaw County
Start from seed, cuttings, or divisions. Plant in well-drained, lean soil. Prune lightly after flowering. Replace plants every 3-4 years when they become woody.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Level Up Your Garden
Thyme in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Thyme in Chickasaw County, IA?
Chickasaw County is in Zone 4b with an average last frost of May 3. Plan your Thyme planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Chickasaw County, IA?
Chickasaw County, Iowa is in USDA Hardiness Zone 4b. The average last spring frost is May 3 and first fall frost is October 5.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Chickasaw County gardeners in Zone 4b organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
Get Your Free Garden Planner →Free download. Plan your entire garden season in minutes.