Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Nilwood, IL, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 6a.
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Nilwood, IL Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for Nilwood, IL
The average last frost date in spring for Nilwood is April 20th. For gardeners planting sensitive crops like tomatoes, peppers, and basil, it is generally recommended to wait until May 4th 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 Nilwood, IL
The average first frost date in fall for Nilwood 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 Nilwood, IL
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Nilwood is approximately 183 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.
Nilwood, IL Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
Nilwood, IL Monthly Planting Recommendations
February
In February, recommended activities include starting Coneflower seeds indoors (from February 23rd to March 9th), starting Impatiens seeds indoors (from February 9th to February 23rd), and starting Snapdragon seeds indoors (from February 9th to February 23rd).
March
In March, recommended activities include direct sowing Carrot (from March 30th to April 13th), direct sowing Lettuce (from March 23rd to April 6th), and starting Marigold seeds indoors (from March 9th to March 23rd).
April
In April, recommended activities include direct sowing Pumpkin (from April 27th to May 11th), direct sowing Calendula (from April 6th to April 20th), and direct sowing Zucchini (from April 27th to May 11th).
May
In May, recommended activities include direct sowing Jute (from May 4th to May 18th), direct sowing Melon (from May 4th to May 18th), and direct sowing Corn (from May 4th to May 11th).