When to plant Larkspur in Macon County, IL
Aim to plant Larkspur in Macon County on or after March 16; the window stays open through April 6. Macon County's 189-day frost-free season gives you enough for a full main crop and a short fall succession.
When to Plant Larkspur in Macon County, IL
Larkspur (Consolida ajacis) is a cool-season annual that produces tall, delicate spires of blue, purple, pink, and white flowers reminiscent of its perennial cousin, delphinium. Direct-sown into cold soil or fall-sown in mild-winter climates, it blooms in spring before going to seed as summer heat arrives. An excellent cut flower and cottage-garden staple.
Macon County, Illinois is in USDA Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is April 13 and the first fall frost is October 19, giving you a growing season of approximately 189 days.
At an elevation of 1,064 feet, Macon County receives approximately 31.3 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 86°F, providing good warmth for Larkspur during the growing season.
Macon County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Larkspur Planting Timeline — Macon County, IL
Larkspur Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Sow | March 16 | Mar 16 – Apr 6 |
| Bloom | May 25 | May 25 – Jul 20 |
Plant 0.1" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Direct Sow |
| April | Direct Sow |
| May | Bloom |
| June | Bloom |
| July | Bloom |
| August | — |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
Low — drought tolerant
📅 Days to Maturity
60–90 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 6a
📆 Growing Season
189 days in Macon County
Growing Tips for Macon County
Larkspur does not transplant well — direct-sow only. In cold climates (zones 2–6), sow directly in early spring as soon as soil can be worked, 4–6 weeks before last frost; cold soil improves germination. In zones 7–10, fall-sow 8–10 weeks before first frost for spring bloom. Press seeds lightly into soil; they need darkness to germinate — cover with 1/8–1/4 inch of soil. Thin to 6–12 inches to prevent powdery mildew. Allow seed pods to mature and self-sow for naturalized colonies. All parts are toxic if ingested.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Larkspur in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Larkspur in Macon County, IL?
Macon County is in Zone 6a with an average last frost of April 13. Plan your Larkspur planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Macon County, IL?
Macon County, Illinois is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is April 13 and first fall frost is October 19.
When should I plant Larkspur in Macon County, IL?
In Macon County, IL, plant Larkspur after the last frost (around April 13) and before the first frost (around October 19). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Macon County, IL for Larkspur?
Macon County sits in USDA Zone 6a. Larkspur grows reliably in zones 2a through 10b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Larkspur grow in Macon County's climate?
Yes — Larkspur grows well in Macon County's temperate climate. Macon County averages a 189-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 13 and first frost around October 19.
Your Macon County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Macon 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.