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Can You Grow Lemon Tree in Iowa?

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

Won't grow here

Lemon trees cannot survive your winters outdoors — but they thrive as container plants brought indoors.

Plant zones

9a–11b

Iowa last frost

mid-April

Iowa first frost

mid-October

Days to harvest

Perennial

About Lemon Tree

Lemon trees are popular container plants and can be grown indoors or outdoors in warm climates.

In cold zones grow in containers and bring indoors before frost. Keep near a sunny window or under grow lights. Water when top 2cm of soil is dry. Feed with citrus fertiliser in spring and summer.

Full lemon tree 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 Lemon Tree in Iowa?

Lemon trees cannot survive your winters outdoors — but they thrive as container plants brought indoors.

What zone is Iowa?

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

When do you plant Lemon Trees in Iowa?

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