Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Tower lakes, IL, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 5b.
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Tower lakes, IL Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for Tower lakes, IL
The average last frost date in spring for Tower lakes is May 3rd. For gardeners planting sensitive crops like tomatoes, peppers, and basil, it is generally recommended to wait until May 17th 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 Tower lakes, IL
The average first frost date in fall for Tower lakes is October 13th. 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 Tower lakes, IL
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Tower lakes is approximately 163 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.
Tower lakes, IL Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
Tower lakes, IL Monthly Planting Recommendations
February
In February, recommended activities include starting Impatiens seeds indoors (from February 22nd to March 8th), starting Leek seeds indoors (from February 22nd to March 8th), and starting Celery seeds indoors (from February 22nd to March 8th).
March
In March, recommended activities include starting Sage seeds indoors (from March 22nd to April 5th), starting Marigold seeds indoors (from March 22nd to April 5th), and starting Kale seeds indoors (from March 22nd to April 5th).
April
In April, recommended activities include direct sowing Cilantro (from April 19th to May 17th), direct sowing Bok Choy (from April 5th to April 19th), and direct sowing Garden Cress (from April 5th to April 19th).
May
In May, recommended activities include direct sowing Chia (from May 17th to May 31st), direct sowing Mung Bean (from May 17th to May 31st), and direct sowing Anise (from May 10th to May 17th).