When to plant Eggplant in Carroll County, IL
Carroll County gardeners should plant Eggplant between April 29 and May 20 in spring. With Carroll County's Zone 5a climate (last frost April 22), Eggplant needs 65–85 days to mature — plant by July 20 for a full harvest.
When to Plant Eggplant in Carroll County, IL
Eggplant is a heat-loving solanaceous crop that produces glossy fruits in purple, white, or striped varieties. It requires long, warm growing seasons for best production.
Carroll County, Illinois is in USDA Zone 5a. The average last spring frost is April 22 and the first fall frost is October 13, giving you a growing season of approximately 174 days.
At an elevation of 778 feet, Carroll County receives approximately 39.3 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 84°F, so choose short-season varieties of Eggplant to ensure they mature before fall.
Carroll County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
How Much Eggplant to Grow
For a family of 4, plant approximately 8 eggplant plants in about 16 sq ft. In Carroll County's 174-day season, you'll have plenty of time for a full harvest. Plan your garden layout →
Eggplant Planting Timeline — Carroll County, IL
Eggplant Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | February 11 | Feb 11 – Feb 25 |
| Transplant Outdoors | May 6 | May 6 – May 20 |
| Direct Sow | April 29 | Apr 29 – May 20 |
| Harvest | July 15 | Jul 15 – Sep 16 |
Plant 1" deep · 30" apart · Rows 42" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | Start Indoors |
| March | — |
| April | Direct Sow |
| May | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| June | — |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| September | Harvest |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
Moderate — regular watering
📅 Days to Maturity
65–85 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 5.5–7 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 5a
📆 Growing Season
174 days in Carroll County
Growing Tips for Carroll County
Start seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before last frost. Transplant only after nighttime temperatures stay above 55F. Mulch to retain moisture and warmth around roots.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Eggplant in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Eggplant in Carroll County, IL?
Carroll County is in Zone 5a with an average last frost of April 22. Plan your Eggplant planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Carroll County, IL?
Carroll County, Illinois is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5a. The average last spring frost is April 22 and first fall frost is October 13.
When should I plant Eggplant in Carroll County, IL?
In Carroll County, IL, plant Eggplant after the last frost (around April 22) and before the first frost (around October 13). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Carroll County, IL for Eggplant?
Carroll County sits in USDA Zone 5a. Eggplant grows reliably in zones 5a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Eggplant grow in Carroll County's climate?
Yes — Eggplant grows well in Carroll County's temperate climate. Carroll County averages a 174-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 22 and first frost around October 13.
Your Carroll County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Carroll County (Zone 5a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.