Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Lake forest, IL, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 6a.
On this page:
Lake forest, IL Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for Lake forest, IL
The average last frost date in spring for Lake forest is April 30th. For gardeners planting sensitive crops like tomatoes, peppers, and basil, it is generally recommended to wait until May 14th 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 Lake forest, IL
The average first frost date in fall for Lake forest is October 25th. 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 Lake forest, IL
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Lake forest is approximately 178 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.
Lake forest, IL Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
Lake forest, IL Monthly Planting Recommendations
February
In February, recommended activities include starting Petunia seeds indoors (from February 19th to March 5th), starting Celery seeds indoors (from February 19th to March 5th), and starting Snapdragon seeds indoors (from February 19th to March 5th).
March
In March, recommended activities include starting Kale seeds indoors (from March 19th to April 2nd), starting Luffa seeds indoors (from March 19th to April 2nd), and starting Ground Cherry seeds indoors (from March 5th to March 19th).
April
In April, recommended activities include direct sowing Lemon Balm (from April 30th to May 14th), direct sowing Arugula (from April 2nd to April 16th), and direct sowing Lettuce (from April 2nd to April 16th).
May
In May, recommended activities include direct sowing Moss Rose (from May 7th to May 21st), direct sowing Cucumber (from May 7th to May 21st), and direct sowing Cosmos (from May 7th to May 14th).