Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in North chicago, IL, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 6a.
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North chicago, IL Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for North chicago, IL
The average last frost date in spring for North chicago is April 30th. For gardeners planting sensitive crops like tomatoes, peppers, and basil, it is generally recommended to wait until May 14th 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 North chicago, IL
The average first frost date in fall for North chicago is October 25th. 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 North chicago, IL
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in North chicago is approximately 178 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.
North chicago, IL Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
North chicago, IL Monthly Planting Recommendations
February
In February, recommended activities include starting Begonia seeds indoors (from February 19th to March 5th), starting Snapdragon seeds indoors (from February 19th to March 5th), and starting Petunia seeds indoors (from February 19th to March 5th).
March
In March, recommended activities include starting Broccoli seeds indoors (from March 5th to March 19th), starting Kale seeds indoors (from March 19th to April 2nd), and starting Basil seeds indoors (from March 19th to April 2nd).
April
In April, recommended activities include direct sowing Chives (from April 2nd to April 16th), direct sowing Sweet Pea (from April 2nd to April 16th), and direct sowing Flax (from April 2nd to April 16th).
May
In May, recommended activities include direct sowing Okra (from May 14th to May 28th), direct sowing Butterfly Pea (from May 14th to May 28th), and direct sowing Mung Bean (from May 14th to May 28th).