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Can You Grow Lavender in Iowa?

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

Grows well here

Lavender grows as a perennial here — plant in well-drained soil and it will thrive for years.

Plant zones

5a–8b

Iowa last frost

mid-April

Iowa first frost

mid-October

Days to harvest

Perennial

About Lavender

Lavender needs excellent drainage above all — it will rot in wet heavy soil even in a suitable zone.

Plant in the sandiest most well-drained soil you have. Raised beds or containers work well. Cut back by half after flowering. English lavender (L. angustifolia) is the hardiest for cold zones.

Full lavender 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 Lavender in Iowa?

Lavender grows as a perennial here — plant in well-drained soil and it will thrive for years.

What zone is Iowa?

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

When do you plant Lavenders in Iowa?

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