Iowa · Midwest
Des Moines, IA
Zone-aware planting reference for Des Moines. Population 214,133; USDA hardiness zone 5b; nearest curated zip code 50307.
- USDA zone
- 5b
- Population
- 214,133
- Last spring frost
- 04/18
- First fall frost
- 10/20
- Growing season
- 184 days
- Nearest zip
- 50307
Local timing baseline
Detailed guidance for this section is being prepared. Check back soon.
Crops suited to Des Moines
Crops whose USDA zone range includes zone 5b. 81 crops match.
Tree fruit
11 crops
Berries
20 crops
zone 5b Aronia (Black Chokeberry)
Aronia melanocarpa
zones 3a–8a
zone 5b Black Currant
Ribes nigrum
zones 3a–7a
zone 5b Black Raspberry
Rubus occidentalis
zones 4a–8a
zone 5b Blackberry
Rubus subgenus Rubus
zones 5a–9a
zone 5b Cranberry
Vaccinium macrocarpon
zones 3a–7a
zone 5b Elderberry
Sambucus canadensis
zones 3b–9a
Nuts
4 crops
Vegetables
37 crops
zone 5b Arugula
Eruca vesicaria
zones 3b–9a
zone 5b Asparagus
Asparagus officinalis
zones 3b–8b
zone 5b Beet
Beta vulgaris
zones 3a–9a
zone 5b Broccoli
Brassica oleracea var. italica
zones 3a–9a
zone 5b Brussels Sprouts
Brassica oleracea var. gemmifera
zones 3b–8a
zone 5b Bush Bean
Phaseolus vulgaris
zones 3b–9a
Herbs
9 crops
Other cities in Iowa
Frequently asked questions
- What USDA zone is Des Moines, IA?
Des Moines sits in USDA hardiness zone 5b, based on the nearest zip code (50307).
- When are the average last and first frost dates in Des Moines?
Based on the nearest weather station, Des Moines averages a last spring frost around 04/18 and a first fall frost around 10/20, for a growing season of about 184 days.
- What crops grow well in Des Moines?
81 crops in the ZonePlant database have a recommended USDA zone range that includes zone 5b. Tree fruit, berries, and most common vegetables are well-suited; check each crop page for variety-level guidance.
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