What to Plant in October
Des Moines, IA · Zone 5b
Last frost: Apr 25
Frost-free days: 168
The growing season is winding down. Plant garlic for next year, clean up spent crops, and sow cover crops on empty beds. Cold frames can extend the harvest.
October at a Glance
Indoor
Transplant
Direct Sow
1
5
10
15
20
25
Radish
Direct Sow 1
Plant these seeds directly into the soil outdoors.
Radish
Sep 16 – Oct 8
16 per sq ft
22–30 days
October Gardening Tips
- Direct sow Radish straight into the garden — no transplanting needed.
- Clean up spent crops to reduce overwintering pest and disease pressure.
Nearby Cities
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