Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Peru, IL, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 5b.
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Peru, IL Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for Peru, IL
The average last frost date in spring for Peru is April 26th. For gardeners planting sensitive crops like tomatoes, peppers, and basil, it is generally recommended to wait until May 10th 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 Peru, IL
The average first frost date in fall for Peru is October 15th. 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 Peru, IL
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Peru is approximately 172 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.
Peru, IL Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
Peru, IL Monthly Planting Recommendations
February
In February, recommended activities include starting Leek seeds indoors (from February 15th to March 1st), starting Snapdragon seeds indoors (from February 15th to March 1st), and starting Begonia seeds indoors (from February 15th to March 1st).
March
In March, recommended activities include direct sowing California Poppy (from March 29th to April 12th), direct sowing Crimson Clover (from March 29th to April 12th), and starting Cantaloupe seeds indoors (from March 29th to April 12th).
April
In April, recommended activities include direct sowing Swiss Chard (from April 12th to April 26th), direct sowing Beet (from April 12th to April 26th), and direct sowing Fenugreek (from April 26th to May 10th).
May
In May, recommended activities include direct sowing Corn (from May 10th to May 17th), direct sowing Morning Glory (from May 3rd to May 17th), and direct sowing Zinnia (from May 3rd to May 17th).