Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Dorchester, IL, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 6a.
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Dorchester, IL Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for Dorchester, IL
The average last frost date in spring for Dorchester is April 20th. For gardeners planting sensitive crops like tomatoes, peppers, and basil, it is generally recommended to wait until May 4th 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 Dorchester, IL
The average first frost date in fall for Dorchester 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 Dorchester, IL
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Dorchester is approximately 183 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.
Dorchester, IL Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
Dorchester, IL Monthly Planting Recommendations
February
In February, recommended activities include starting Lavender seeds indoors (from February 9th to February 23rd), starting French Lavender seeds indoors (from February 9th to February 23rd), and starting Tomato seeds indoors (from February 23rd to March 9th).
March
In March, recommended activities include direct sowing Flax (from March 23rd to April 6th), direct sowing Parsley (from March 23rd to April 6th), and direct sowing Garden Cress (from March 23rd to April 6th).
April
In April, recommended activities include direct sowing Pumpkin (from April 27th to May 11th), direct sowing Nasturtium (from April 27th to May 4th), and direct sowing Fennel (from April 6th to April 20th).
May
In May, recommended activities include direct sowing Melon (from May 4th to May 18th), direct sowing Chia (from May 4th to May 18th), and direct sowing Mung Bean (from May 4th to May 18th).