Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Rockport, IL, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 6a.
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Rockport, IL Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for Rockport, IL
The average last frost date in spring for Rockport is April 22nd. For gardeners planting sensitive crops like tomatoes, peppers, and basil, it is generally recommended to wait until May 6th 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 Rockport, IL
The average first frost date in fall for Rockport 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 Rockport, IL
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Rockport is approximately 181 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.
Rockport, IL Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
Rockport, IL Monthly Planting Recommendations
February
In February, recommended activities include starting Tomato seeds indoors (from February 25th to March 11th), starting Geranium seeds indoors (from February 11th to February 25th), and starting Tomatillo seeds indoors (from February 25th to March 11th).
March
In March, recommended activities include starting Basil seeds indoors (from March 11th to March 25th), direct sowing California Poppy (from March 25th to April 8th), and starting Brussel Sprout seeds indoors (from March 11th to March 25th).
April
In April, recommended activities include direct sowing Swiss Chard (from April 8th to April 22nd), direct sowing Hyssop (from April 8th to April 22nd), and direct sowing Zinnia (from April 29th to May 13th).
May
In May, recommended activities include direct sowing Chia (from May 6th to May 20th), direct sowing Butterfly Pea (from May 6th to May 20th), and direct sowing Jute (from May 6th to May 20th).