Growing Plants on the Hot Side of the Hill in Iowa?

by John
(Centerville, Iowa U.S.)

I would like to know what would be the best flowers, trees and veggies to plant on the southwest corner of an acreage? I have rain water collections for this project.

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Feb 09, 2010
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What to Grow in Iowa on the Hot Side of a Hill
by: Countryfarm Lifestyles

Hi John

It is difficult to answer your questions not knowing much about your soil conditions in your area, and also not coming from Iowa myself.

However, I can say that if your hill is full of rocks you can use these to your advantage by planting plants that normally grow in more temperate conditions, as long as the hill is protected. This is because your plants can draw heat from the stones.

However, to give you a more specific answer I have asked Gypsy, our resident writer for the Homestead Blog to answer your question as she lives in Iowa.

This was her reply:

Iowa soil varies so much. We have rich black soil to sandy crap. I would want to know what soil type you have.

Normally on my hill it is sunny, and gets very little water because of the hill as it all runs off. I grow squash, pumkins etc. because it covers the hill and I don't have to mow it.

My soil on the hill is sandy/clay with lots of grass to hold in what little moisture it would get from rain and dew. The clay helps to hold in moisture.

Trees that grow well in Iowa are anything you can dig up. Elm, Maple, Oak. If it grows wild in your area its a good rule of thumb you can also transplant it. Raspberries do well in partial shade on hills. Loganberries do awesome for full sun in any soil. I have some extra if you would like some. Mine go crazy. "

Hope that helps.

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