What Growing Zone Is Rock Rapids?
Our records indicate the United States Department of Agriculture has given Rock Rapids a growing zone designation of 5a. Sometimes also called the planting or hardiness zone, this zone number gives you an idea of what plants can and cannot grow in Rock Rapids's climate based on the average extreme annual temperature.Our data is based on the latest 2023 USDA maps, which used Rock Rapids's weather data from 1991 - 2020 in their analysis.
Latest IA growing zone mapIf you are looking for plants suitable for growing in the Rock Rapids area, head on over to our page on plants that grow well in Rock Rapids, IA.
Hydroponic Garden Grow Kit
Grow fresh herbs and vegetables year-round with this indoor hydroponic garden system.
Raised Garden Bed Kit
Easy-to-assemble raised garden bed for better soil control and drainage.
Wooden Chicken Coop
Spacious and secure home for your backyard chickens.
Rustic Iron Garden Trellis
Sturdy trellis for supporting climbing plants and vines.
Cluck Around Sign
Whimsical sign for your chicken coop area.
Latest IA growing zone mapThe growing zone is a measure of the lowest temperature that a plant can survive based on average lowest year temperatures, helping you to decide what plants would grow best in your particular climate. Since Rock Rapids is in growing zone 5a this means that plants there can survive temperatures as low as -20 to -15 degrees Fahrenheit. Plants for Rock Rapids'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.
Some zones may have been changed by the USDA as of 2023. To see if the Rock Rapids area has been affected, refer to this map of half zone changes from the 2012 version of the USDA zones to the 2023 version.
Half zone changes from 2012 to 2023The updated map shows that over half of the Southeast has warmed by about half a zone. For gardeners, that means you can now grow plants that tolerate a bit more heat and less frost than before. The tan areas reflect this shift. Meanwhile, the white areas had slight temperature changes, but not enough to move them into a new zone. In the Western U.S., a few spots shifted cooler. That’s not due to a colder climate, but because the new map uses a larger dataset, giving a more accurate picture of local conditions. It's important to keep track of these changes when planning your garden!
Hardiness Zone FAQ
Have questions about hardiness zones and what they mean for your garden? Check out our FAQ below for quick answers to common questions about USDA hardiness zones and how they affect plant selection in Rock Rapids, IA.
The USDA hardiness zone is 5a for Rock Rapids. This is sometimes also referred to as the growing or planting zone. These terms are used interchangeably.
Rock Rapids's Growing Zone Details
USDA Growing Zone: 5a
Zip Codes: 51246
Longitude: -96.1662
Latitude: 43.4273
Lowest Avg Temperatures (F): -20 to -15
Small Greenhouse Kit
Compact greenhouse perfect for small spaces.
Brass Decorative Faucet Handle
Elegant brass handle to enhance your garden faucet.
Wooden Chicken Coop
Spacious and secure home for your backyard chickens.
Fiskars Garden Harvest Basket
Sturdy basket for collecting and carrying your garden harvest.
Metal Arbor Trellis
Decorative arbor trellis for climbing plants and garden entrance.
Map of the Rock Rapids Area
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Brass Decorative Faucet Handle
Elegant brass handle to enhance your garden faucet.
Fiskars Garden Harvest Basket
Sturdy basket for collecting and carrying your garden harvest.
Large Greenhouse Kit
Spacious greenhouse for extending your growing season.
Seed Starting Trays
Perfect for starting seeds indoors before transplanting to your garden.
Self Watering Plant Pots
Innovative pots that maintain optimal moisture levels.
Plants For Other States
Looking for the best plants in a different area of the United States? Click on a button below to find plants that are ideal for that state's temperatures.
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Fiskars Garden Harvest Basket
Sturdy basket for collecting and carrying your garden harvest.
Deluxe Plastic Watering Can
High-capacity watering can with comfortable grip and precise spout.
Reusable Grow Bags
Breathable fabric grow bags that promote healthy root growth for your vegetables and fruits.
Metal Seed Storage Box
Organized storage solution for your seed collection.
Large Greenhouse Kit
Spacious greenhouse for extending your growing season.
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