When to Plant Carrots in Jersey County, IL
Carrots are a popular root vegetable available in orange, purple, white, and yellow varieties. They are rich in beta-carotene and have a sweet, earthy flavor.
Jersey County, Illinois is in USDA Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is April 11 and the first fall frost is October 21, giving you a growing season of approximately 193 days.
At an elevation of 1,202 feet, Jersey County receives approximately 34.5 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 88°F, providing good warmth for Carrots during the growing season.
Jersey County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.7-7.2
Drainage
Well Drained
Plant Planting Risk Windows
Percentages indicate frost risk at transplant. The 70% safe window means there is a 30% chance of frost after transplant — suitable for cold-hardy crops or gardeners with frost protection. The 90% safe window is best for tender plants.
Plant Water Budget
Carrots Planting Timeline — Jersey County, IL
Carrots Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Sow | March 28 | Mar 28 – Apr 18 |
| Fall Sowing | August 12 | Aug 12 – Aug 26 |
| Harvest | May 30 | May 30 – Jul 4 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 6" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Direct Sow |
| April | Direct Sow |
| May | Harvest |
| June | Harvest |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Fall Sowing |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
Water
Moderate — regular watering
Days to Maturity
60–80 days
Soil pH
6 – 6.8
USDA Zone
Zone 6a
Growing Season
193 days
Growing Tips for Jersey County
Sow seeds directly in loose, stone-free soil for straight roots. Keep soil moist until germination which can take 2-3 weeks. Thin seedlings to 2 inches apart.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Level Up Your Garden
Isolate 1/2 mile from Queen Anne's Lace (wild carrot). Biennial — requires two seasons.
Carrots in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Carrots in Jersey County, IL?
Jersey County is in Zone 6a with an average last frost of April 11. Plan your Carrots planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Jersey County, IL?
Jersey County, Illinois is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is April 11 and first fall frost is October 21.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Jersey County gardeners in Zone 6a organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
Get Your Free Garden Planner →Free download. Plan your entire garden season in minutes.