Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Harwood heights, IL, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 6a.
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Harwood heights, IL Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for Harwood heights, IL
The average last frost date in spring for Harwood heights is April 25th. For gardeners planting sensitive crops like tomatoes, peppers, and basil, it is generally recommended to wait until May 9th 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 Harwood heights, IL
The average first frost date in fall for Harwood heights 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 Harwood heights, IL
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Harwood heights is approximately 173 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.
Harwood heights, IL Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
Harwood heights, IL Monthly Planting Recommendations
February
In February, recommended activities include starting Tomato seeds indoors (from February 28th to March 14th), starting Aubergine seeds indoors (from February 28th to March 14th), and starting Stevia seeds indoors (from February 28th to March 14th).
March
In March, recommended activities include starting Basil seeds indoors (from March 14th to March 28th), direct sowing Poppy (from March 28th to April 11th), and direct sowing Radish (from March 28th to April 11th).
April
In April, recommended activities include direct sowing Gladiolus (from April 25th to May 9th), direct sowing Alyssum (from April 11th to April 25th), and direct sowing Lemon Balm (from April 25th to May 9th).
May
In May, recommended activities include direct sowing Cantaloupe (from May 2nd to May 16th), direct sowing Zucchini (from May 2nd to May 16th), and direct sowing Morning Glory (from May 2nd to May 16th).