Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Metcalf, IL, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 6a.
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Metcalf, IL Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for Metcalf, IL
The average last frost date in spring for Metcalf is April 21st. For gardeners planting sensitive crops like tomatoes, peppers, and basil, it is generally recommended to wait until May 5th 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 Metcalf, IL
The average first frost date in fall for Metcalf 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 Metcalf, IL
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Metcalf is approximately 182 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.
Metcalf, IL Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
Metcalf, IL Monthly Planting Recommendations
February
In February, recommended activities include starting Coneflower seeds indoors (from February 24th to March 10th), starting Snapdragon seeds indoors (from February 10th to February 24th), and starting Broccoli seeds indoors (from February 24th to March 10th).
March
In March, recommended activities include direct sowing Watercress (from March 24th to April 7th), starting Luffa seeds indoors (from March 10th to March 24th), and direct sowing Garden Cress (from March 24th to April 7th).
April
In April, recommended activities include direct sowing Quinoa (from April 7th to April 21st), direct sowing Moss Rose (from April 28th to May 12th), and direct sowing Cosmos (from April 28th to May 5th).
May
In May, recommended activities include direct sowing Black Bean (from May 5th to May 19th), direct sowing Sesame (from May 5th to May 19th), and direct sowing Melon (from May 5th to May 19th).