Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Chatham, IL, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 6a.
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Chatham, IL Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for Chatham, IL
The average last frost date in spring for Chatham is April 15th. For gardeners planting sensitive crops like tomatoes, peppers, and basil, it is generally recommended to wait until April 29th 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 Chatham, IL
The average first frost date in fall for Chatham 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 Chatham, IL
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Chatham is approximately 188 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.
Chatham, IL Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
Chatham, IL Monthly Planting Recommendations
February
In February, recommended activities include starting Statice seeds indoors (from February 18th to March 4th), starting Lavender seeds indoors (from February 4th to February 18th), and starting Tomato seeds indoors (from February 18th to March 4th).
March
In March, recommended activities include direct sowing Carrot (from March 25th to April 8th), direct sowing Sweet Pea (from March 18th to April 1st), and starting Basil seeds indoors (from March 4th to March 18th).
April
In April, recommended activities include direct sowing Mung Bean (from April 29th to May 13th), direct sowing Fenugreek (from April 15th to April 29th), and direct sowing Zinnia (from April 22nd to May 6th).