Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Bowen, IL, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 6a.
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Bowen, IL Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for Bowen, IL
The average last frost date in spring for Bowen is April 22nd. For gardeners planting sensitive crops like tomatoes, peppers, and basil, it is generally recommended to wait until May 6th 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 Bowen, IL
The average first frost date in fall for Bowen is October 15th. 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 Bowen, IL
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Bowen is approximately 176 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.
Bowen, IL Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
Bowen, IL Monthly Planting Recommendations
February
In February, recommended activities include starting Cabbage seeds indoors (from February 25th to March 11th), starting French Lavender seeds indoors (from February 11th to February 25th), and starting Broccoli seeds indoors (from February 25th to March 11th).
March
In March, recommended activities include direct sowing Chervil (from March 25th to April 8th), direct sowing Crimson Clover (from March 25th to April 8th), and starting Brussel Sprout seeds indoors (from March 11th to March 25th).
April
In April, recommended activities include direct sowing Beet (from April 8th to April 22nd), direct sowing German Chamomile (from April 8th to April 22nd), and direct sowing Gladiolus (from April 22nd to May 6th).
May
In May, recommended activities include direct sowing Mung Bean (from May 6th to May 20th), direct sowing Sesame (from May 6th to May 20th), and direct sowing Melon (from May 6th to May 20th).