Sidell, IL — Planting Guide for June
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This month in Sidell, IL
A quick June briefing for Sidell, IL gardeners — what's urgent, what's next, and what can wait.
-
Fire up the seed-starting tray: basil, peppers, and pole beans
Starting these indoors now means sturdy transplants ready the moment your soil warms up.
-
Harvest basil, carrots, and cucumber as they ripen
Check every 1–2 days. Many of these get tough or go to seed if you wait too long.
Looking ahead to July
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
Sidell gardens in a maritime climate — mild wet winters, cool dry summers (37" annual rainfall, most of it October to April). Cool-season crops like peas, lettuce, kale, and brassicas thrive almost year-round. The challenge is summer heat: long-season warm-weather crops (full-size tomatoes, peppers, melons) need every bit of summer sun, so prioritize short-season varieties, use dark mulches to warm the soil, and reserve your warmest microclimates (south-facing walls, near pavement) for the tender stuff.
Soils trend Silt Loam — the gold standard for vegetables. Add 2–3" of compost annually to maintain it and you'll outgrow most of your neighbors.
Drought pressure is moderate (12.9 weeks/year on average). Mulching and drip irrigation pay for themselves quickly.
🌡️ USDA Zone
6a (-10°F to -5°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
April 14
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 16
📅 Growing Season
185 days
🌧️ Climate
Moderate 36.8" annual
💨 Wind
Breezy 10.3 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
12.9 wk/yr trend worsening
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Sidell
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
The practical takeaway: Most vegetables want about 1 inch of water per week. Sidell gets 37" a year — months that hit that 1"/week need zero supplemental watering; months that fall short, the table tells you how much to add. Saves you from drowning roots and from drought-stressing plants into bolting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 1.4 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.4 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Mar | 1.8 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Apr | 3.1 in | 8 days | 1.2 in | Moderate |
| May | 3.9 in | 12 days | 0.4 in | Low |
| Jun | 3.7 in | 8 days | 0.6 in | Moderate |
| Jul | 3.8 in | 7 days | 0.5 in | Low |
| Aug | 3.5 in | 8 days | 0.8 in | Moderate |
| Sep | 2.5 in | 8 days | 1.8 in | High |
| Oct | 2.1 in | 8 days | 2.2 in | High |
| Nov | 2.2 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Dec | 1.7 in | 7 days | — | None |
Annual total: 31.1 in. Water needs vary by crop — tomatoes need ~1.2"/week while herbs like rosemary need only 0.3"/week. Check individual plant pages for crop-specific water budgets that factor in your county's rainfall and soil drainage.
Sidell Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.2-6.9
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data from 3 stations
Beginners: Plant frost-sensitive crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) after the "Safe" date on the left. Harvest or cover them before the "Protect by" date on the right. Hardy crops (lettuce, peas, kale) can go in the yellow transition zones.
How to read this table: "Conservative" means you're safe from frost 9 out of 10 years — best for beginners and frost-sensitive crops. "Average year" is the typical date. "Aggressive" means only 1 in 10 years is that warm — experienced gardeners with frost protection can try these dates.
| Planting Strategy | Last Spring Frost | First Fall Frost | Frost-Free Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conservative (safest) | May 3 | Oct 30 | 180 days |
| Cautious | Apr 21 | Oct 24 | 186 days |
| Average year | Apr 14 | Oct 16 | 185 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 11 | Oct 11 | 183 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 4 | Oct 5 | 184 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±29 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Yes — growing seasons are getting shorter here (about 4.1 days per decade). Use the "Conservative" dates and choose fast-maturing varieties.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Vermilion County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Vermilion County
Free expert help is closer than you think. Your county's cooperative extension office connects you with trained gardeners, soil testing labs, and local programs — all specific to Vermilion County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Vermilion County University of Illinois Extension Extension Office
Phone: 217-333-7672
Visit Extension Office Website →
Extension offices are run by land-grant universities and funded by the USDA. Their advice is free, research-based, and tailored to your county's specific conditions.
Master Gardener Program
Free gardening help from trained volunteers
Master Gardeners are community volunteers who complete 40–60 hours of university horticultural training. They answer gardening questions, diagnose plant problems, and offer workshops — all free.
Many extension offices run a Master Gardener hotline where you can call or email with photos of plant problems for free diagnosis.
Soil Testing
Available through your extension office
Before amending your soil, get it tested. Your extension office offers soil testing (typically $10–$25) that tells you exact pH, nutrient levels, and amendment recommendations specific to what you want to grow.
Services Available in Vermilion County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Vermilion County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Vermilion County's soil and climate that big-box stores can't. Plants from local growers are typically hardier because they're already acclimated to your zone.
How to Find Them
Search for "nurseries near Vermilion County IL" or "garden center Vermilion County" on Google Maps. Also check with your extension office — they often maintain lists of reputable local nurseries and plant sales.
Community gardens & gardening groups
Community gardens are a great way to learn from experienced gardeners in your area, especially if you're limited on space. Search "community garden Vermilion County IL" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Vermilion County Gardeners" or "Illinois Gardening" are also excellent for local advice and plant swaps.
What to Plant After Your Harvest
After your first crops finish, use the remaining frost-free days to grow a second round.
Show 6 more succession options
Sunlight & Day Length in Sidell
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Quick context: Day length is the trigger that tells lettuce, spinach, and cilantro to bolt. In Sidell, knowing when that day-length threshold arrives helps you plant a final round in time to harvest before it bolts.
Longest Day
14.8 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.2 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
9.6 hr/day peak (summer)
Peak sun hours (green dashed line below) account for cloud cover — this is the usable direct sunlight your garden actually receives. Most vegetables need 6+ peak sun hours.
Onion tip: Your long summer days (14+ hours) support long-day onion varieties like Walla Walla, Sweet Spanish, and Ailsa Craig.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Daylight Hours | Peak Sun Hours | Day Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 9.4 hr | 3.9 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.5 hr | 4.6 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 5.7 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.1 hr | 7.1 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.2 hr | 7.8 hr | Long day |
| June | 14.8 hr | 8.8 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.6 hr | 9.6 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.6 hr | 8.1 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 7.3 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.9 hr | 5.9 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.7 hr | 3.8 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.2 hr | 3.4 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Sidell
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Why this matters: Soil temperature predicts plant emergence better than calendar dates. Sidell's spring soil warm-up curve tells you which weeks are safe for direct-sow beans, cucumbers, squash, and corn.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from Jun through Sep.
Best Month to Compost
Jun
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
6 months
Solid season. Piles go dormant in winter.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 24°F | 30°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 24°F | 31°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 29°F | 33°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 45°F | 43°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| May | 59°F | 55°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 68°F | 62°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 78°F | 69°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 79°F | 73°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 69°F | 70°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 55°F | 60°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 43°F | 49°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Dec | 30°F | 36°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
Highlighted rows = soil 60°F+ (safe for warm-season transplants). Compost finishes fastest during peak activity months.
Pest & Disease Pressure in Sidell
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Quick context: Pest pressure scales with warmth and humidity. Hot humid Sidell sees year-round bugs and fungal disease; cold dry regions see almost none. A high pest score means crop rotation, resistant varieties, and a weekly pest-watch routine from day one.
Insect Pest Pressure
Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.
Disease Risk
Low disease risk — dry conditions reduce fungal problems.
Seasonal Risk
View 5 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Japanese beetles | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash bugs | Low | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Tomato hornworms | Low | Jul, Aug |
| Cabbage loopers | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
Organic pest management tips
- Maintain healthy soil with regular compost additions to build natural pest resistance
- Practice crop rotation annually to break pest cycles
- Encourage beneficial insects with flowering herbs like dill, fennel, and yarrow
Cover Crops for Sidell
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
Quick context: In Sidell, cover crops also crowd out weeds. The denser the cover, the less weed pressure next season. Pays for itself in saved weeding time.
Spring Cover Crops (3 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Apr 18 | Aug 14 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 23 | Aug 21 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 20 | Aug 7 | ✓ Yes | Living mulch, fixes nitrogen, permanent ground cover |
Summer Cover Crops (1 options) — Fill gaps and suppress weeds between plantings
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sunflowers | May 10 | Oct 2 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Fall Cover Crops (6 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austrian winter peas | Aug 18 | Mar 24 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Daikon radish | Aug 18 | Mar 24 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 27 | Mar 24 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 18 | Mar 24 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 20 | Mar 24 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 24 | Mar 24 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Sidell
The practical takeaway: Wind affects three things gardeners forget: how fast soil dries (more wind = more watering), whether pollinators can work (calm beats gusty), and whether your trellised crops stay upright. Sidell sees 10.3 mph on average — a forgiving baseline.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 13 mph Summer: 9 mph
Fall: 11 mph Winter: 13 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
6.5/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (84 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Sidell
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
What this means for you: The first inch of rain washes the roof clean — a first-flush diverter sends it to waste before the barrel fills. Worth the extra $20 for cleaner garden water. Sidell gets 37" annually, so you'll fill and flush many times per year.
Annual Collection
15,500 gal
Per 1,000 sq ft of roof area (at 80% collection efficiency)
Recommended Setup
6 rain barrels (55 gal each)
For a typical 500 sq ft garden. Serious collectors: consider a 1,750 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
May, Jun, Jul, Aug
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Jan, Feb, Dec
Dry months when you'll rely on stored water — size your storage for this gap.
Rainwater collection tips for your area
- Your county receives approximately 31.1 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 15,500 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Jan, Feb, Dec)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Sidell
107 vegetables matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Sidell.
Show all 107 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 10 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jul 21 – Aug 25 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jul 28 – Sep 15 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 7 | May 19 – Jul 21 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Apr 28 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Mar 31 | — | Aug 7 | May 26 – Jun 23 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 7 | Aug 4 – Sep 29 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 30 – Aug 11 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Apr 21 | — | — | Jul 21 – Sep 8 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 7 | May 26 – Jun 30 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 7 | Jun 16 – Jul 28 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 7 | May 26 – Jun 30 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 7 | Jul 14 – Sep 8 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 10 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jul 28 – Sep 1 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 7 | Jun 16 – Aug 11 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 15 | 80–120 |
| Carrots | — | Mar 31 | — | Aug 7 | Jun 2 – Jul 7 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 7 | Jun 9 – Aug 11 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 7 | Jul 28 – Sep 1 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 7 | Jul 7 – Sep 1 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 7 | Jun 16 – Jul 28 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 7 | Jun 9 – Jul 28 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 7 | Jul 7 – Aug 18 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 7 | Jun 16 – Jul 28 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 7 | Jun 9 – Jul 7 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jul 21 – Aug 25 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 7 | Jun 9 – Aug 11 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Apr 21 | — | — | Jun 23 – Aug 18 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Apr 21 | — | — | Jun 23 – Aug 4 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 7 | Apr 28 – May 19 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 10 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 16 – Jul 14 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Mar 31 | — | Aug 7 | Sep 1 – Oct 13 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 10 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 23 – Aug 18 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Mar 31 | — | Aug 7 | May 26 – Jun 23 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 10 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jul 21 – Aug 25 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Apr 21 | — | — | Jul 7 – Aug 18 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 3 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jul 7 – Sep 8 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 7 | Jun 2 – Jul 7 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 7 | Jun 9 – Jul 7 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 7 | Jun 30 – Aug 11 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 30 – Aug 11 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 4 | Dec 4 – Mar 19 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | Apr 21 | — | — | Jun 16 – Aug 11 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Apr 28 | — | Sep 1 – Nov 10 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 3 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jul 7 – Oct 13 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 10 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Aug 11 – Sep 15 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Mar 10 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jul 28 – Aug 25 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 7 | Jun 2 – Jun 30 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 7 | Jun 9 – Aug 4 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 21 | — | — | Jul 21 – Aug 25 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 7 | Jun 2 – Jul 7 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 7 | May 19 – Jun 23 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 7 | Jul 14 – Sep 29 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 7 | Jul 7 – Aug 18 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 7 | May 19 – Jul 28 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Apr 21 | — | — | Jun 23 – Aug 4 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Feb 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Aug 11 – Oct 13 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Feb 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jul 28 – Oct 13 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 7 | May 26 – Jun 30 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Mar 10 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jul 7 – Aug 25 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 7 | Apr 21 – May 19 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Aug 7 | Jun 2 – Jul 28 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 7 | May 19 – Jun 16 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 7 | May 19 – Jul 21 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 7 | Jun 9 – Jul 14 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 23 – Jul 21 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 23 – Aug 18 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 7 | Jul 14 – Sep 1 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 7 | May 26 – Jun 23 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Mar 31 | — | Aug 7 | Jul 14 – Aug 25 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 10 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 16 – Jul 14 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 7 | Jun 9 – Aug 4 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 3 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 30 – Sep 8 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 23 – Aug 18 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jul 7 – Sep 15 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 10 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jul 28 – Sep 15 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 7 | May 26 – Jun 30 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 7 | Jun 16 – Jul 21 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Mar 31 | — | Aug 7 | Apr 28 – May 19 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 7 | Jun 30 – Aug 11 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Mar 31 | — | Aug 7 | Jun 23 – Jul 28 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Mar 31 | — | Aug 7 | Jul 14 – Aug 25 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 7 | Jun 23 – Aug 18 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 7 | Jun 9 – Jul 7 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 30 – Aug 4 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 7 | Jul 14 – Sep 1 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Feb 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 23 – Aug 18 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 23 – Aug 18 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 7 | Jun 9 – Aug 4 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Apr 21 | — | — | Jul 14 – Sep 8 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 10 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jul 28 – Aug 25 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 7 | May 19 – Jul 21 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 10 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 16 – Aug 18 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 10 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jul 21 – Sep 15 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Apr 28 | — | Aug 18 – Oct 13 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Apr 21 | — | — | Jun 23 – Aug 4 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jul 28 – Sep 15 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 7 | May 19 – Jun 23 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 30 – Sep 8 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 30 – Sep 8 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Mar 31 | — | Aug 7 | May 12 – Jun 16 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 14 | Aug 7 | May 26 – Jun 30 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 10 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jul 7 – Aug 25 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Apr 21 | — | — | Jun 16 – Aug 11 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jul 28 – Sep 15 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 23 – Aug 4 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 10 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 16 – Aug 11 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Sidell
27 fruits matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Sidell.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 5 | — | Aug 4 – Nov 17 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 5 | — | Jul 14 – Aug 18 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 5 | — | Jul 14 – Sep 8 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 5 | — | Jul 28 – Sep 8 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Quince | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 5 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 5 | — | Aug 4 – Nov 17 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Sidell
35 herbs matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Sidell.
Show all 35 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Aug 7 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Aug 7 | Jul 7 – Sep 22 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Feb 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 23 – Aug 25 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Jul 21 – Oct 6 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Aug 7 | Jun 2 – Jul 21 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Aug 7 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 23 – Aug 25 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Aug 7 | Jun 9 – Aug 18 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Aug 7 | May 19 – Jul 21 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 23 – Sep 1 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Aug 7 | May 19 – Jul 21 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 23 – Sep 1 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Aug 7 | Jul 21 – Sep 22 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Aug 7 | May 19 – Jul 21 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Feb 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 16 – Aug 11 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Aug 7 | Jun 9 – Aug 18 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Jul 21 – Oct 6 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 23 – Sep 1 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Jul 7 – Sep 1 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Sep 1 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 23 – Aug 11 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Sep 1 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Sep 1 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 23 – Sep 1 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 23 – Sep 1 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 23 – Sep 1 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Aug 7 | Jun 9 – Aug 11 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Sep 1 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Jul 7 – Sep 1 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 16 – Aug 11 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 10 | Mar 31 | Apr 7 | Aug 7 | May 19 – Jul 21 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 23 – Sep 1 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Feb 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 23 – Aug 25 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Sep 1 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Apr 21 | — | Aug 25 – Nov 3 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Sidell
53 flowers matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Sidell.
Show all 53 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Feb 24 | Apr 14 | Apr 14 | — | Jun 9 – Sep 15 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Sep 4 | Oct 2 – Oct 30 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | Mar 17 | — | Apr 14 | — | May 19 – Jun 16 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Feb 10 | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Sep 8 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Mar 3 | Mar 17 | Apr 14 | Sep 4 | Jun 16 – Sep 1 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Feb 3 | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Sep 29 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Feb 10 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jul 7 – Oct 20 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Feb 10 | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 16 – Jul 21 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Mar 3 | Mar 17 | Apr 14 | — | Jun 2 – Sep 1 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | Mar 17 | — | — | May 26 – Jul 7 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Mar 10 | Apr 21 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 23 – Oct 6 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Feb 10 | Apr 28 | Apr 28 | — | Jun 23 – Jul 28 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Feb 10 | Apr 21 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Oct 20 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Mar 17 | Apr 14 | Apr 14 | — | Jun 23 – Sep 29 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Sep 4 | Jul 24 – Aug 14 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Sep 4 | Jul 31 – Aug 21 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Mar 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 21 | — | Jul 7 – Oct 20 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Feb 10 | — | Apr 21 | — | Jul 7 – Oct 20 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Feb 17 | Mar 17 | Mar 31 | — | May 19 – Aug 18 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Feb 10 | Apr 28 | Apr 28 | — | Jul 21 – Oct 27 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Feb 10 | Apr 21 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 16 – Jul 21 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Feb 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Nov 3 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Feb 3 | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Sep 29 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Apr 14 | Apr 14 | — | Jun 30 – Oct 13 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Feb 3 | — | Apr 21 | — | Jul 7 – Oct 20 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Sep 4 | Aug 21 – Sep 11 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Feb 3 | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Oct 6 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Feb 17 | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Oct 6 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Apr 21 | — | Jun 16 – Jul 14 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Mar 17 | — | — | May 26 – Jul 21 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Feb 3 | — | Apr 28 | — | Jul 7 – Sep 1 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Oct 6 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Feb 10 | — | Mar 31 | — | May 26 – Aug 18 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Feb 10 | Apr 21 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 16 – Jul 21 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Mar 3 | Apr 21 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 16 – Sep 15 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Mar 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 16 – Oct 6 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Feb 3 | — | Apr 14 | Aug 21 | Jun 9 – Aug 11 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | Apr 21 | — | Jun 23 – Jul 28 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Feb 17 | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Oct 6 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Feb 10 | Apr 21 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Sep 22 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 10 | Apr 21 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 9 – Sep 22 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | Mar 3 | — | Apr 14 | — | May 26 – Jun 23 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Feb 3 | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Oct 20 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Feb 10 | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Oct 6 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Feb 10 | — | Apr 21 | — | Aug 11 – Oct 27 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Feb 3 | Mar 24 | Apr 14 | — | Jun 23 – Sep 1 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Mar 24 | Apr 21 | Apr 21 | — | Jul 14 – Oct 6 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Feb 24 | Mar 24 | Apr 14 | — | May 26 – Aug 4 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | Mar 3 | Mar 10 | Apr 14 | — | Jun 30 – Sep 8 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Sep 4 | Aug 14 – Sep 11 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Feb 3 | — | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Oct 6 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Feb 10 | Apr 14 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Oct 20 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Mar 17 | Apr 21 | Apr 21 | — | Jun 30 – Oct 6 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Sidell
ZIP Codes in Sidell
Click any ZIP to see its specific frost, soil, and climate measurements (some ZIPs differ noticeably from the town aggregate):
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Vermilion County.
Your Vermilion County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Vermilion County (Zone 6a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.
The Gardener's Encyclopedia to Companion Planting
The pairings that make vegetables, herbs, and flowers grow better — and the ones that quietly wreck a bed.
- Proven pairings for 200+ vegetables, herbs, flowers, and fruits
- Full seed-starting + planting schedule with timing and spacing
- Bonus: square-foot gardening guide + printable seasonal planners
Seed Saving & Storage Guide
Most saved seeds go bad before next season. This shows exactly when to pick, how to dry, and where to store seeds from 200 plants so yours don't.
- 200 plants, step-by-step: life cycle, pollination type, isolation
- Exact temperature + humidity ranges that keep seeds viable
- Bonus: searchable Google Sheets tracker + custom GPT assistant
Composting Guide for Homesteaders
Turn kitchen scraps and yard waste into compost that actually feeds the garden — instead of a pile that smells, attracts pests, and never breaks down.
- 14 sections on composting methods, soil science, and troubleshooting
- The 7-step hot-compost system from start to finish
- Bonus tools: troubleshooting chart, safety guide, monitoring log