When to plant Tomatillo in Franklin County, IL
The best window to plant Tomatillo in Franklin County, is April 17–May 8, when soil warms to 50°F. Last frost typically hits April 10; first frost October 20.
When to Plant Tomatillo in Franklin County, IL
Tomatillos are a Mexican staple that produces tart, green fruits enclosed in papery husks. They are essential for salsa verde and green sauces.
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 Tomatillo during the growing season.
Franklin County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Tomatillo Planting Timeline — Franklin County, IL
Tomatillo Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | February 20 | Feb 20 – Mar 6 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 24 | Apr 24 – May 8 |
| Direct Sow | April 17 | Apr 17 – May 8 |
| Harvest | June 26 | Jun 26 – Sep 4 |
Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | Start Indoors |
| March | Start Indoors |
| April | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| May | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| 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
60–85 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 7a
📆 Growing Season
193 days in Franklin County
Growing Tips for Franklin County
Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost. Plant at least two plants for cross-pollination. Harvest when fruits fill the husk and it begins to split.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Tomatillo in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Tomatillo in Franklin County, IL?
Franklin County is in Zone 7a with an average last frost of April 10. Plan your Tomatillo 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 Tomatillo in Franklin County, IL?
In Franklin County, IL, plant Tomatillo 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 Tomatillo?
Franklin County sits in USDA Zone 7a. Tomatillo grows reliably in zones 4a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Tomatillo grow in Franklin County's climate?
Yes — Tomatillo 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.