Traditional Peak Color Times in Iowa

The timing, intensity and quality of fall color vary each year throughout Iowa and even on the trees scattered in your yard or neighborhood. Peak fall color occurs in northeast Iowa, on the average, on the weekend closest to Columbus Day. Peak fall color occurs later in the more southern parts of the state; however, it all depends on the weather and precipitation conditions. Regardless of your location in Iowa, the peak will usually be reached two or three weeks after the color changes begin.

This link to the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone map provides a good general indicator of the two plant growing zones in Iowa that affect the fall color periods.