Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Lakewood, IL, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 5b.
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Lakewood, IL Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for Lakewood, IL
The average last frost date in spring for Lakewood is May 4th. For gardeners planting sensitive crops like tomatoes, peppers, and basil, it is generally recommended to wait until May 18th 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 Lakewood, IL
The average first frost date in fall for Lakewood is October 10th. 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 Lakewood, IL
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Lakewood is approximately 159 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.
Lakewood, IL Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
Lakewood, IL Monthly Planting Recommendations
February
In February, recommended activities include starting Begonia seeds indoors (from February 23rd to March 9th), starting Leek seeds indoors (from February 23rd to March 9th), and starting Onion seeds indoors (from February 23rd to March 9th).
March
In March, recommended activities include direct sowing Pea (from March 23rd to April 6th), starting Sage seeds indoors (from March 23rd to April 6th), and starting Thyme seeds indoors (from March 9th to March 23rd).
April
In April, recommended activities include direct sowing Lentil (from April 20th to May 4th), direct sowing Mustard (from April 6th to April 20th), and direct sowing Poppy (from April 6th to April 20th).
May
In May, recommended activities include direct sowing Watermelon (from May 18th to June 1st), direct sowing Fenugreek (from May 4th to May 18th), and direct sowing Nasturtium (from May 11th to May 18th).