Soil Temperature in Iowa
The current average 2-inch soil temperature across Iowa is 62°F, based on 3 USDA and NOAA monitoring stations. Readings range from 59°F to 65°F. Last updated May 18, 2026.
Current Planting Conditions
Prime cool-season planting conditions in Iowa with soil averaging 62°F at 2 inches. The spring fertilizer and overseeding window is active. This is the ideal range for tall fescue and Kentucky bluegrass establishment.
Monitoring Stations in Iowa (3)
| Station | 2" Temp | Last Reading |
|---|---|---|
| Ames (Boone) | 59°F | 2026-05-18 |
| Shagbark Hills (Woodbury) | 61°F | 2026-05-18 |
| Des Moines 17 E | 65°F | 2026-05-18 |
Cities in Iowa (24)
| City | ZIP | Current Temp | Distance from state center |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amana | 52203 | — | 84 mi |
| Ames | 50010 | — | 6 mi |
| Ankeny | 50021 | — | 25 mi |
| Bloomfield | 52537 | — | 109 mi |
| Boone | 50036 | — | 20 mi |
| Cedar Falls | 50613 | — | 62 mi |
| Cedar Rapids | 52401 | — | 95 mi |
| Clarion | 50525 | — | 47 mi |
| Clinton | 52732 | — | 170 mi |
| Council Bluffs | 51501 | — | 136 mi |
| Davenport | 52801 | — | 155 mi |
| Des Moines | 50301 | — | 28 mi |
| Dubuque | 52001 | — | 147 mi |
| Fairfield | 52556 | — | 109 mi |
| Harlan | 51537 | — | 98 mi |
| Iowa City | 52240 | — | 107 mi |
| Mason City | 50401 | — | 76 mi |
| Melcher-dallas | 50062 | — | 60 mi |
| Red Oak | 51566 | — | 116 mi |
| Shenandoah | 51601 | — | 133 mi |
| Sioux City | 51101 | — | 151 mi |
| Urbandale | 50322 | — | 33 mi |
| Waterloo | 50701 | — | 64 mi |
| West Des Moines | 50265 | — | 36 mi |
Soil Temperature FAQ for Iowa
What is the current soil temperature in Iowa?
The current average 2-inch soil temperature across Iowa is 62°F, based on 3 USDA and NOAA monitoring stations. Readings range from 59°F to 65°F depending on location and elevation.
When should I apply pre-emergent in Iowa?
Apply pre-emergent herbicide when soil at 2 inches reaches 55°F for several consecutive days. Timing varies across Iowa, so check your city's page for station-specific readings and the pre-emergent timing recommendation.
When can I plant grass seed in Iowa?
Cool-season grasses (fescue, bluegrass) can be seeded when soil holds between 50 and 65°F. Warm-season grasses (bermuda, zoysia) need soil above 65°F. Timing varies by location, so check your city's planting window for the dates specific to your area.