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Can You Grow Chives in Iowa?

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

Grows well here

Chives grow easily here as a perennial — plant once and harvest for years.

Plant zones

3a–9b

Iowa last frost

mid-April

Iowa first frost

mid-October

Days to harvest

Perennial

About Chives

Chives are one of the hardiest and most low-maintenance herbs — plant once and harvest for years.

Plant in any reasonable soil. Cut leaves to 5cm from the base for regrowth. Divide clumps every few years. The purple flowers are edible and attract pollinators. Note: toxic to dogs and cats.

Full chives 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 Chives in Iowa?

Chives grow easily here as a perennial — plant once and harvest for years.

What zone is Iowa?

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

When do you plant Chiveses in Iowa?

See the planting guide for Chives — timing depends on your exact frost date.