my LocalPlanting

When to Plant Lupine in Ames, Nebraska (68621)

Location

Ames, Nebraska

ZIP Code

68621

USDA Zone

5b

Last Frost

Saturday, April 25, 2026

📅 Planting Calendar

Direct Sow Outdoors Saturday, March 28, 2026

Pro Tip: Sow Lupine directly outdoors 4 weeks before your last frost date.

🌿 Plant Details

Scientific Name Lupinus polyphyllus
Days to Maturity 365 days
Mature Height 24-48"
Spread 24"

☀️ Growing Requirements

☀️

Sun

Full Sun to Partial Shade

💧

Water

Moderate (1 inch/week)

↔️

Spacing

18" apart

🌱

Planting Depth

0.5" deep

Seeds typically germinate in 14-21 days

Ready to Plant Lupine in Ames?

Get your seeds now so they're ready by Saturday, March 28, 2026.

* Affiliate links — we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

🤝 Good Companions

CarrotBrassicasCorn

⚠️ Avoid Planting Near

Fennel

Other Plants for Ames

Growing Lupine in Zone 5b

Lupine (Lupinus polyphyllus) is a popular garden vegetable. In Ames, Nebraska, which is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5b, you should direct sow seeds around Saturday, March 28, 2026.

Your average last frost date is Saturday, April 25, 2026. Lupine grows well when direct sown, as it doesn't transplant well or germinates quickly outdoors.