Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Atkinson, IL, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 5b.
On this page:
Atkinson, IL Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for Atkinson, IL
The average last frost date in spring for Atkinson is April 27th. For gardeners planting sensitive crops like tomatoes, peppers, and basil, it is generally recommended to wait until May 11th before moving plants outdoors. Waiting these extra few weeks significantly reduces the risk of a late freeze damaging young transplants.
First Fall Frost Date for Atkinson, IL
The average first frost date in fall for Atkinson is October 8th. This date marks the approximate end of the growing season for tender plants. Gardeners should plan to harvest frost-sensitive vegetables or provide heavy protection (such as row covers) before this date to avoid crop loss.
Growing Season Length in Atkinson, IL
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Atkinson is approximately 164 days. This duration determines which vegetable varieties have enough time to reach maturity before the winter cold sets in. Short-season varieties are recommended for crops that require a longer warm period.
Please note: These dates are climatological averages. Actual weather conditions vary by year. Always check the local 10-day forecast before planting.
Atkinson, IL Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
Atkinson, IL Monthly Planting Recommendations
February
In February, recommended activities include starting Lavender seeds indoors (from February 16th to March 2nd), starting Impatiens seeds indoors (from February 16th to March 2nd), and starting Petunia seeds indoors (from February 16th to March 2nd).
March
In March, recommended activities include direct sowing Alfalfa (from March 30th to April 13th), direct sowing Pea (from March 16th to March 30th), and direct sowing Spinach (from March 16th to March 30th).
April
In April, recommended activities include direct sowing Quinoa (from April 13th to April 27th), direct sowing Gladiolus (from April 27th to May 11th), and direct sowing Milk Thistle (from April 13th to April 27th).
May
In May, recommended activities include direct sowing Zinnia (from May 4th to May 18th), direct sowing Chia (from May 11th to May 25th), and direct sowing Melon (from May 11th to May 25th).