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Can You Grow Kale in Iowa?

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

Grows well here

Kale grows exceptionally well here — it is one of the most cold-tolerant vegetables available.

Plant zones

2a–9b

Iowa last frost

mid-April

Iowa first frost

mid-October

Days to harvest

55–75 days

When to plant Kales in Iowa

Start indoors

Mar 18

Transplant

Apr 15

Harvest

Jun 9 – Jun 29

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

About Kale

Kale is one of the hardiest vegetables available — it survives hard frosts and tastes sweeter after a freeze.

Sow indoors 4-6 weeks before last frost or direct sow in late summer for fall harvest. Harvest outer leaves to keep the plant producing. Cold-hardy varieties survive winter in Zone 7+.

Full kale 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.