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When to Plant Jicama in Illinois

Jicama is a tropical legume grown for its crisp, sweet, starchy root. It requires a very long, warm growing season but produces a refreshing, water chestnut-like tuber.

Illinois spans USDA hardiness zones 7a (with planting data available), so planting dates vary by your location within the state. Click your zone below for the most accurate dates.

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Click your county for exact Jicama planting dates based on your local frost dates.

Jicama Planting Calendar for Illinois

Zone 7a ~221 day growing season · Full guide →

Last frost: March 25 · First frost: November 1 · 221 day season

Activity When Date Range
Start Indoors February 4 Feb 4 – Feb 18
Transplant Outdoors April 8 Apr 8 – Apr 22
Direct Sow April 1 Apr 1 – Apr 22
Harvest August 12 Aug 12 – Oct 21

Growing Tips for Illinois

Start seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before last frost. Pinch off flowers to direct energy to root development. Harvest before first frost when roots are 3-6 inches across.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I plant Jicama in Illinois?

Planting dates for Jicama in Illinois depend on your USDA zone. Illinois spans zones 7a. Check the planting calendar above for your specific zone's frost dates and planting windows.

What zone is Illinois for planting?

Illinois contains USDA hardiness zones 7a. Your specific zone depends on your location within the state — northern and higher-elevation areas are in colder zones, while southern and coastal areas are warmer.

Data sources: USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map (2023), NOAA 30-Year Climate Normals, University Cooperative Extension planting guides. Last updated: April 2026.