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Can You Grow Sunflower in Iowa?

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

Grows well here

Sunflowers grow brilliantly here — they love the warm season and produce quickly.

Plant zones

2a–11b

Iowa last frost

mid-April

Iowa first frost

mid-October

Days to harvest

60–80 days

When to plant Sunflowers in Iowa

Direct sow

Apr 15

Harvest

Jun 14 – Jul 4

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

About Sunflower

Sunflowers are fast-growing cheerful and attract pollinators — some varieties produce edible seeds.

Direct sow after last frost in the sunniest spot available. No transplanting needed. Giant varieties need staking. Harvest seed heads when the back turns brown and seeds are firm.

Full sunflower 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.