When to plant Corn in DeKalb County, IL
Plant Corn in DeKalb County from April 29 to May 20 in spring. DeKalb County sits in USDA Zone 5b, with last frost around April 22 and first frost on October 16.
When to Plant Corn in DeKalb County, IL
Corn is a warm-season grass grown for its sweet ears, which are best eaten soon after harvest. It is wind-pollinated and must be planted in blocks for good kernel fill.
DeKalb County, Illinois is in USDA Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is April 22 and the first fall frost is October 16, giving you a growing season of approximately 177 days.
At an elevation of 1,332 feet, DeKalb County receives approximately 34.3 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 87°F, providing good warmth for Corn during the growing season.
DeKalb County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
How Much Corn to Grow
For a family of 4, plant approximately 60 corn plants in about 120 sq ft. In DeKalb County's 177-day season, you'll have plenty of time for a full harvest. Plan your garden layout →
Corn Planting Timeline — DeKalb County, IL
Corn Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Sow | April 29 | Apr 29 – May 20 |
| Harvest | July 1 | Jul 1 – Aug 26 |
Plant 1" deep · 12" apart · Rows 36" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | Direct Sow |
| May | Direct Sow |
| June | — |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
Moderate — regular watering
📅 Days to Maturity
60–100 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 5b
📆 Growing Season
177 days in DeKalb County
Growing Tips for DeKalb County
Plant in blocks of at least 4 rows rather than single rows for proper pollination. Direct sow after soil reaches 60F. Side-dress with nitrogen when plants are knee-high.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Corn in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Corn in DeKalb County, IL?
DeKalb County is in Zone 5b with an average last frost of April 22. Plan your Corn planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is DeKalb County, IL?
DeKalb County, Illinois is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is April 22 and first fall frost is October 16.
When should I plant Corn in DeKalb County, IL?
In DeKalb County, IL, plant Corn after the last frost (around April 22) and before the first frost (around October 16). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is DeKalb County, IL for Corn?
DeKalb County sits in USDA Zone 5b. Corn grows reliably in zones 3a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Corn grow in DeKalb County's climate?
Yes — Corn grows well in DeKalb County's temperate climate. DeKalb County averages a 177-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 22 and first frost around October 16.
Your DeKalb County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for DeKalb County (Zone 5b). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.