When to plant Strawberries in Franklin County, IL
Franklin County's 193-day season only supports one Strawberries planting per year. Sow between May 1 and May 15 for the best chance at full maturity before October 20.
When to Plant Strawberries in Franklin County, IL
Strawberries are a beloved perennial fruit available as June-bearing, ever-bearing, and day-neutral types. They are one of the easiest fruits to grow in containers or garden beds.
Franklin County, Illinois is in USDA Zone 7a. The average last spring frost is April 10 and the first fall frost is October 20, giving you a growing season of approximately 193 days.
At an elevation of 747 feet, Franklin County receives approximately 37.3 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 89°F, providing good warmth for Strawberries during the growing season.
Franklin County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
How Much Strawberries to Grow
For a family of 4, plant approximately 40 strawberries plants in about 80 sq ft. In Franklin County's 193-day season, you'll have plenty of time for a full harvest. Plan your garden layout →
Strawberries Planting Timeline — Franklin County, IL
Strawberries Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | May 1 | May 1 – May 15 |
| Harvest | July 31 | Jul 31 – Dec 11 |
· 12" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | — |
| May | Transplant Outdoors |
| June | — |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| September | Harvest |
| October | Harvest |
| November | Harvest |
| December | Harvest |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
Moderate — regular watering
📅 Days to Maturity
90–365 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 5.5–6.8 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 7a
📆 Growing Season
193 days in Franklin County
Growing Tips for Franklin County
Plant with crowns at soil level. Remove runners the first year to strengthen plants. Mulch with straw to keep fruit clean and suppress weeds. Renovate June-bearing beds after harvest.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Strawberries in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Strawberries in Franklin County, IL?
Franklin County is in Zone 7a with an average last frost of April 10. Plan your Strawberries planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Franklin County, IL?
Franklin County, Illinois is in USDA Hardiness Zone 7a. The average last spring frost is April 10 and first fall frost is October 20.
When should I plant Strawberries in Franklin County, IL?
In Franklin County, IL, plant Strawberries after the last frost (around April 10) and before the first frost (around October 20). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Franklin County, IL for Strawberries?
Franklin County sits in USDA Zone 7a. Strawberries grows reliably in zones 3a through 10b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Strawberries grow in Franklin County's climate?
Yes — Strawberries grows well in Franklin County's temperate climate. Franklin County averages a 193-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 10 and first frost around October 20.
Your Franklin County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Franklin 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.