Iowa City's Hardiness Zone

Our records indicate the United States Department of Agriculture has given Iowa City a growing zone designation of 5b. Sometimes also called the planting zone or hardiness zone, this zone number gives you an idea of what plants can and cannot grow in Iowa City's climate. If you are looking for plants suitable for growing in the Iowa City area, head on over to our page on plants that grow well in Iowa City, IA.

Cluck Around Sign

Whimsical sign for your chicken coop area.

Reusable Grow Bags

Breathable fabric grow bags that promote healthy root growth for your vegetables and fruits.

Raised Garden Planter

Elevated planter for easy access and better drainage.

Seed Starting Trays

Perfect for starting seeds indoors before transplanting to your garden.

Fiskars Garden Harvest Basket

Sturdy basket for collecting and carrying your garden harvest.

Understanding your growing zone is very important because it is a measure of the lowest temperature that a plant can survive, helping you to decide what plants would grow best in your particular climate. Since Iowa City is in growing zone 5b this means that plants there can survive temperatures as low as 10 to 15 degrees Fahrenheit. Plants chosen for Iowa City's climate should be chosen with this in mind or plants should be moved inside to keep their core temperature in the right range if necessary.

USDA Growing Zone: 5b

Zip Codes: 52245, 52246, 52240, 52242, 52243, 52244

Longitude: -91.5303

Latitude: 41.6559

Lowest Avg Temperatures (F): -15 to -10