Use this planting calendar to find the best times of the year to grow fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other popular plants in Wheeler, IL, based on the USDA Hardiness Zone 6a.
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Wheeler, IL Frost Dates & Growing Season
Last Spring Frost Date for Wheeler, IL
The average last frost date in spring for Wheeler is April 19th. For gardeners planting sensitive crops like tomatoes, peppers, and basil, it is generally recommended to wait until May 3rd 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 Wheeler, IL
The average first frost date in fall for Wheeler 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 Wheeler, IL
Based on historical frost data, the estimated growing season length in Wheeler is approximately 184 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.
Wheeler, IL Planting Calendar
This weekly planting calendar displays the ideal windows for starting seeds, transplanting, and harvesting your plants.
Wheeler, IL Monthly Planting Recommendations
February
In February, recommended activities include starting Artichoke seeds indoors (from February 8th to February 22nd), starting Tomatillo seeds indoors (from February 22nd to March 8th), and starting Coneflower seeds indoors (from February 22nd to March 8th).
March
In March, recommended activities include direct sowing Alfalfa (from March 22nd to April 5th), direct sowing Arugula (from March 22nd to April 5th), and starting Pumpkin seeds indoors (from March 29th to April 5th).
April
In April, recommended activities include direct sowing Gladiolus (from April 19th to May 3rd), direct sowing Lentil (from April 5th to April 19th), and direct sowing Milk Thistle (from April 5th to April 19th).
May
In May, recommended activities include direct sowing Lima Bean (from May 3rd to May 17th), direct sowing Mung Bean (from May 3rd to May 17th), and direct sowing Melon (from May 3rd to May 17th).