When to plant Caraway in Alexander County, IL
For Caraway in Alexander County, the safe spring window opens around March 27 and closes around April 17. Last expected frost is April 10, first fall frost October 21, giving a 194-day growing season. A second sowing from August 12 to August 26 extends the harvest into fall.
When to Plant Caraway in Alexander County, IL
Caraway is a biennial herb grown for its distinctive crescent-shaped seeds used in rye bread, sauerkraut, and European cuisine. The leaves and roots are also edible.
Alexander County, Illinois is in USDA Zone 7a. The average last spring frost is April 10 and the first fall frost is October 21, giving you a growing season of approximately 194 days.
At an elevation of 1,260 feet, Alexander County receives approximately 38.6 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 88°F, providing good warmth for Caraway during the growing season.
Alexander County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Caraway Planting Timeline — Alexander County, IL
Caraway Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 6 | Mar 6 – Mar 20 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 3 | Apr 3 – Apr 17 |
| Direct Sow | March 27 | Mar 27 – Apr 17 |
| Fall Sowing | August 12 | Aug 12 – Aug 26 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Start Indoors Direct Sow |
| April | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| May | — |
| June | — |
| July | — |
| August | Fall Sowing |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
Moderate — regular watering
📅 Days to Maturity
365–450 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7.5 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 7a
📆 Growing Season
194 days in Alexander County
Growing Tips for Alexander County
Direct sow in spring or fall. Caraway produces seeds in its second year. Harvest seed heads when they turn brown. The young leaves can be used like parsley.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
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Caraway in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Caraway in Alexander County, IL?
Alexander County is in Zone 7a with an average last frost of April 10. Plan your Caraway planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Alexander County, IL?
Alexander County, Illinois is in USDA Hardiness Zone 7a. The average last spring frost is April 10 and first fall frost is October 21.
When should I plant Caraway in Alexander County, IL?
In Alexander County, IL, plant Caraway after the last frost (around April 10) and before the first frost (around October 21). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Alexander County, IL for Caraway?
Alexander County sits in USDA Zone 7a. Caraway grows reliably in zones 3a through 9b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Caraway grow in Alexander County's climate?
Yes — Caraway grows well in Alexander County's temperate climate. Alexander County averages a 194-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 10 and first frost around October 21.
Your Alexander County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Alexander County (Zone 7a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.