When to plant Chives in DeWitt County, IL
DeWitt County's short 185-day growing season means one Chives planting between April 22 and May 6. No fall crop in Zone 6a.
When to Plant Chives in DeWitt County, IL
Chives are a hardy perennial herb with a mild onion flavor and attractive purple pom-pom flowers. They are one of the easiest herbs to grow and maintain.
DeWitt County, Illinois is in USDA Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is April 15 and the first fall frost is October 17, giving you a growing season of approximately 185 days.
At an elevation of 801 feet, DeWitt County receives approximately 31.8 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 84°F, so choose short-season varieties of Chives to ensure they mature before fall.
DeWitt County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.1-7
Drainage
Well Drained
Monthly Watering Guide for Chives
Chives needs approximately 1 inches of water per week (4.3" per month). Here's how your county's rainfall compares month by month.
| Month | Chives Needs | Rainfall | You Supplement | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | — | 1.4" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 1.2" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | — | 2.3" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Apr | 4.3" | 2.6" | 1.7" | 💧 Light watering |
| May | 4.3" | 4.1" | 0.2" | 💧 Light watering |
| Jun | 4.3" | 4.3" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jul | 4.3" | 3.2" | 1.1" | 💧 Light watering |
| Aug | 4.3" | 3.6" | 0.7" | 💧 Light watering |
| Sep | 4.3" | 2.7" | 1.6" | 💧 Light watering |
| Oct | 4.3" | 2.3" | 2" | 💧 Light watering |
| Nov | — | 2.1" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Dec | — | 2" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Apr–Oct in DeWitt County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Chives Planting Timeline — DeWitt County, IL
Chives Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | April 22 | Apr 22 – May 6 |
| Harvest | June 24 | Jun 24 – Sep 2 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | Transplant Outdoors |
| May | Transplant Outdoors |
| June | Harvest |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| September | Harvest |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
Moderate — regular watering
📅 Days to Maturity
60–90 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 6a
📆 Growing Season
185 days in DeWitt County
Growing Tips for DeWitt County
Start from seed or divisions in spring. Cut back to 2 inches after flowering to encourage fresh growth. Both the leaves and flowers are edible and delicious.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Chives in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Chives in DeWitt County, IL?
DeWitt County is in Zone 6a with an average last frost of April 15. Plan your Chives planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is DeWitt County, IL?
DeWitt County, Illinois is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is April 15 and first fall frost is October 17.
When should I plant Chives in DeWitt County, IL?
In DeWitt County, IL, plant Chives after the last frost (around April 15) and before the first frost (around October 17). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is DeWitt County, IL for Chives?
DeWitt County sits in USDA Zone 6a. Chives grows reliably in zones 3a through 10b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Chives grow in DeWitt County's climate?
Yes — Chives grows well in DeWitt County's temperate climate. DeWitt County averages a 185-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 15 and first frost around October 17.
Your DeWitt County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for DeWitt County (Zone 6a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.