Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Hammond, IL, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 6a.
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Hammond, IL Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for Hammond, IL
The average last frost date in spring for Hammond 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 Hammond, IL
The average first frost date in fall for Hammond 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 Hammond, IL
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Hammond 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.
Hammond, IL Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
Hammond, IL Monthly Planting Recommendations
February
In February, recommended activities include starting Impatiens seeds indoors (from February 9th to February 23rd), starting Black Eyed Susan seeds indoors (from February 23rd to March 9th), and starting Oregano seeds indoors (from February 23rd to March 9th).
March
In March, recommended activities include direct sowing Pea (from March 9th to March 23rd), starting Kale seeds indoors (from March 9th to March 23rd), direct sowing Kale (from March 23rd to April 6th), and direct sowing Spinach (from March 9th to March 23rd).
April
In April, recommended activities include direct sowing Milk Thistle (from April 6th to April 20th), direct sowing Runner Bean (from April 27th to May 11th), and direct sowing Morning Glory (from April 27th to May 11th).
May
In May, recommended activities include direct sowing Chia (from May 4th to May 18th), direct sowing Mung Bean (from May 4th to May 18th), and direct sowing Butterfly Pea (from May 4th to May 18th).