When to plant Medlar in Effingham County, IL
Plant Medlar in Effingham County, between May 7 and May 21 — the only viable window. Zone 6b's short season (184 frost-free days) rules out a fall crop.
When to Plant Medlar in Effingham County, IL
Medlar is a small ornamental tree producing unusual open-ended fruits that must be bletted (softened by frost) before eating. The flavor is complex, like spiced apple butter.
Effingham County, Illinois is in USDA Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 16 and the first fall frost is October 17, giving you a growing season of approximately 184 days.
At an elevation of 953 feet, Effingham County receives approximately 40.9 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 83°F, so choose short-season varieties of Medlar to ensure they mature before fall.
Effingham County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Medlar Planting Timeline — Effingham County, IL
Medlar Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | May 7 | May 7 – May 21 |
· 120" apart · Rows 144" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | — |
| May | Transplant Outdoors |
| June | — |
| July | — |
| August | — |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
Moderate — regular watering
📅 Days to Maturity
1095–1825 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7.5 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 6b
📆 Growing Season
184 days in Effingham County
Growing Tips for Effingham County
Plant in well-drained soil. Medlars are self-fertile and need minimal pruning. Harvest after the first frost and allow to soften (blet) indoors for 2-3 weeks before eating.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Medlar in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Medlar in Effingham County, IL?
Effingham County is in Zone 6b with an average last frost of April 16. Plan your Medlar planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Effingham County, IL?
Effingham County, Illinois is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 16 and first fall frost is October 17.
When should I plant Medlar in Effingham County, IL?
In Effingham County, IL, plant Medlar after the last frost (around April 16) and before the first frost (around October 17). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Effingham County, IL for Medlar?
Effingham County sits in USDA Zone 6b. Medlar grows reliably in zones 4a through 8b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Medlar grow in Effingham County's climate?
Yes — Medlar grows well in Effingham County's temperate climate. Effingham County averages a 184-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 16 and first frost around October 17.
Your Effingham County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Effingham County (Zone 6b). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.