Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Long lake, IL, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 5b.
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Long lake, IL Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for Long lake, IL
The average last frost date in spring for Long lake 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 Long lake, IL
The average first frost date in fall for Long lake is October 13th. 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 Long lake, IL
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Long lake is approximately 162 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.
Long lake, IL Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
Long lake, IL Monthly Planting Recommendations
February
In February, recommended activities include starting Petunia seeds indoors (from February 23rd to March 9th), starting Onion seeds indoors (from February 23rd to March 9th), and starting Geranium seeds indoors (from February 23rd to March 9th).
March
In March, recommended activities include starting Cauliflower seeds indoors (from March 9th to March 23rd), starting Coleus seeds indoors (from March 9th to March 23rd), and starting Coneflower seeds indoors (from March 9th to March 23rd).
April
In April, recommended activities include direct sowing Alyssum (from April 20th to May 4th), direct sowing Carrot (from April 13th to April 27th), and direct sowing Radish (from April 6th to April 20th).
May
In May, recommended activities include direct sowing Runner Bean (from May 11th to May 25th), direct sowing Corn (from May 18th to May 25th), and direct sowing Nasturtium (from May 11th to May 18th).