Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Brooklyn, IL, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 6a.
On this page:
Brooklyn, IL Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for Brooklyn, IL
The average last frost date in spring for Brooklyn is April 18th. For gardeners planting sensitive crops like tomatoes, peppers, and basil, it is generally recommended to wait until May 2nd 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 Brooklyn, IL
The average first frost date in fall for Brooklyn is October 20th. 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 Brooklyn, IL
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Brooklyn is approximately 185 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.
Brooklyn, IL Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
Brooklyn, IL Monthly Planting Recommendations
February
In February, recommended activities include starting Snapdragon seeds indoors (from February 7th to February 21st), starting Aubergine seeds indoors (from February 21st to March 7th), and starting Onion seeds indoors (from February 7th to February 21st).
March
In March, recommended activities include direct sowing Carrot (from March 28th to April 11th), starting Sage seeds indoors (from March 7th to March 21st), and starting Pumpkin seeds indoors (from March 28th to April 4th).
April
In April, recommended activities include direct sowing Quinoa (from April 4th to April 18th), direct sowing Fennel (from April 4th to April 18th), and direct sowing German Chamomile (from April 4th to April 18th).
May
In May, recommended activities include direct sowing Lima Bean (from May 2nd to May 16th), direct sowing Sesame (from May 2nd to May 16th), and direct sowing Butterfly Pea (from May 2nd to May 16th).