Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Sunnyland, IL, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 5b.
On this page:
Sunnyland, IL Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for Sunnyland, IL
The average last frost date in spring for Sunnyland is April 23rd. For gardeners planting sensitive crops like tomatoes, peppers, and basil, it is generally recommended to wait until May 7th 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 Sunnyland, IL
The average first frost date in fall for Sunnyland 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 Sunnyland, IL
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Sunnyland is approximately 180 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.
Sunnyland, IL Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
Sunnyland, IL Monthly Planting Recommendations
February
In February, recommended activities include starting Leek seeds indoors (from February 12th to February 26th), starting Stevia seeds indoors (from February 26th to March 12th), and starting Begonia seeds indoors (from February 12th to February 26th).
March
In March, recommended activities include direct sowing California Poppy (from March 26th to April 9th), direct sowing Watercress (from March 26th to April 9th), and direct sowing Alfalfa (from March 26th to April 9th).
April
In April, recommended activities include direct sowing Carrot (from April 2nd to April 16th), direct sowing Nasturtium (from April 30th to May 7th), and direct sowing Sunflower (from April 30th to May 14th).
May
In May, recommended activities include direct sowing Corn (from May 7th to May 14th), direct sowing Watermelon (from May 7th to May 21st), and direct sowing Chia (from May 7th to May 21st).