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Can You Grow Garlic in Iowa?

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

Grows well here

Garlic grows very well here — plant in fall and harvest the following summer.

Plant zones

3a–9b

Iowa last frost

mid-April

Iowa first frost

mid-October

Days to harvest

240–270 days

When to plant Garlic in Iowa

Direct sow

Oct 1 – Oct 31

Harvest

Jun – Jul (following year)

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

About Garlic

Garlic is planted in fall and harvested the following summer — one of the most rewarding low-effort crops.

Plant cloves in fall (October) pointy-end up 5cm deep 15cm apart. Mulch for winter. Harvest when lower leaves brown. Cure in a warm dry place for 2-3 weeks for long storage.

Full garlic 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.