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Can You Grow Cabbage in Iowa?

US · USDA Zone 5a · zones 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b

Grows well here

Cabbage grows well here — it is one of the most cold-hardy vegetables available.

Plant zones

1a–9b

Iowa last frost

mid-April

Iowa first frost

mid-October

Days to harvest

70–120 days

When to plant Cabbages in Iowa

Start indoors

Mar 3

Transplant

Apr 15

Harvest

Jun 24 – Aug 13

Dates are approximate, based on Iowa's average frost dates. Your exact yard may vary by microclimate.

About Cabbage

Cabbage is cold-hardy and productive — a staple of cool-climate gardens.

Start indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost. Transplant early — cabbage handles frost. Net against cabbage moths. Harvest when heads feel solid and before they split.

Full cabbage growing guide →

Gardening in Iowa

Iowa has a humid continental climate with cold winters and warm summers. Most of the state is Zone 5a-5b. Excellent for cool-season crops and hardy fruits.

See what grows well in Iowa →

Frequently asked questions

Can you grow Cabbage in Iowa?

Cabbage grows well here — it is one of the most cold-hardy vegetables available.

What zone is Iowa?

Iowa spans USDA Zone 5a (4a, 4b, 5a, 5b).

When do you plant Cabbages in Iowa?

Plant Cabbages around mid-April (start indoors Mar 3), harvest Jun 24 – Aug 13.