When to Plant Fennel (herb) in Macon County, IL
Herb fennel is grown for its aromatic leaves, stalks, and seeds rather than a bulb. It has a strong anise flavor and its flowers attract beneficial insects.
Macon County, Illinois is in USDA Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is April 13 and the first fall frost is October 19, giving you a growing season of approximately 189 days.
At an elevation of 1,064 feet, Macon County receives approximately 31.3 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 86°F, providing good warmth for Fennel (herb) during the growing season.
Macon County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6-7.1
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
Fennel (herb) Planting Timeline — Macon County, IL
Fennel (herb) Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 9 | Mar 9 – Mar 23 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 6 | Apr 6 – Apr 20 |
| Direct Sow | March 30 | Mar 30 – Apr 20 |
| Fall Sowing | August 10 | Aug 10 – Aug 24 |
| Harvest | June 8 | Jun 8 – Aug 17 |
Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Start Indoors Direct Sow |
| April | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| May | — |
| June | Harvest |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Fall Sowing Harvest |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
Water
Moderate — regular watering
Days to Maturity
60–90 days
Soil pH
5.5 – 7
USDA Zone
Zone 5b
Growing Season
189 days
Growing Tips for Macon County
Direct sow in spring or fall. Unlike Florence fennel, herb fennel does not form a bulb. Harvest fronds as needed and seeds when they turn brown. Self-sows readily.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Level Up Your Garden
Fennel (herb) in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Fennel (herb) in Macon County, IL?
Macon County is in Zone 5b with an average last frost of April 13. Plan your Fennel (herb) planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Macon County, IL?
Macon County, Illinois is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is April 13 and first fall frost is October 19.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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