Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Monroe center, IL, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 5b.
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Monroe center, IL Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for Monroe center, IL
The average last frost date in spring for Monroe center is May 2nd. For gardeners planting sensitive crops like tomatoes, peppers, and basil, it is generally recommended to wait until May 16th 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 Monroe center, IL
The average first frost date in fall for Monroe center is October 9th. 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 Monroe center, IL
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Monroe center is approximately 160 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.
Monroe center, IL Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
Monroe center, IL Monthly Planting Recommendations
February
In February, recommended activities include starting Onion seeds indoors (from February 21st to March 7th), starting Pansy seeds indoors (from February 21st to March 7th), and starting French Lavender seeds indoors (from February 21st to March 7th).
March
In March, recommended activities include starting Tomato seeds indoors (from March 7th to March 21st), starting Coleus seeds indoors (from March 7th to March 21st), and starting Cauliflower seeds indoors (from March 7th to March 21st).
April
In April, recommended activities include direct sowing Bok Choy (from April 4th to April 18th), direct sowing Alfalfa (from April 4th to April 18th), and direct sowing Fennel (from April 18th to May 2nd).
May
In May, recommended activities include direct sowing Anise (from May 9th to May 16th), direct sowing Lima Bean (from May 16th to May 30th), and direct sowing Cantaloupe (from May 9th to May 23rd).