Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in West salem, IL, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 6b.
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West salem, IL Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for West salem, IL
The average last frost date in spring for West salem is April 17th. For gardeners planting sensitive crops like tomatoes, peppers, and basil, it is generally recommended to wait until May 1st 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 West salem, IL
The average first frost date in fall for West salem 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 West salem, IL
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in West salem is approximately 186 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.
West salem, IL Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
West salem, IL Monthly Planting Recommendations
February
In February, recommended activities include starting Stevia seeds indoors (from February 20th to March 6th), starting Aubergine seeds indoors (from February 20th to March 6th), and starting Tomatillo seeds indoors (from February 20th to March 6th).
March
In March, recommended activities include direct sowing Arugula (from March 20th to April 3rd), starting Kale seeds indoors (from March 6th to March 20th), direct sowing Kale (from March 20th to April 3rd), and direct sowing Watercress (from March 20th to April 3rd).
April
In April, recommended activities include direct sowing Cosmos (from April 24th to May 1st), direct sowing Zucchini (from April 24th to May 8th), and direct sowing Fenugreek (from April 17th to May 1st).
May
In May, recommended activities include direct sowing Mung Bean (from May 1st to May 15th), direct sowing Jute (from May 1st to May 15th), and direct sowing Okra (from May 1st to May 15th).