Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Mount vernon, IL, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 6b.
On this page:
Mount vernon, IL Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for Mount vernon, IL
The average last frost date in spring for Mount vernon is April 17th. For gardeners planting sensitive crops like tomatoes, peppers, and basil, it is generally recommended to wait until May 1st 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 Mount vernon, IL
The average first frost date in fall for Mount vernon 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 Mount vernon, IL
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Mount vernon is approximately 186 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.
Mount vernon, IL Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
Mount vernon, IL Monthly Planting Recommendations
February
In February, recommended activities include starting Onion seeds indoors (from February 6th to February 20th), starting Cabbage seeds indoors (from February 20th to March 6th), and starting Black Eyed Susan seeds indoors (from February 20th to March 6th).
March
In March, recommended activities include direct sowing Chives (from March 20th to April 3rd), direct sowing Poppy (from March 20th to April 3rd), and direct sowing Arugula (from March 20th to April 3rd).
April
In April, recommended activities include direct sowing Runner Bean (from April 24th to May 8th), direct sowing Pumpkin (from April 24th to May 8th), and direct sowing Cucumber (from April 24th to May 8th).
May
In May, recommended activities include direct sowing Sesame (from May 1st to May 15th), direct sowing Watermelon (from May 1st to May 15th), and direct sowing Chia (from May 1st to May 15th).