When to plant Lentils in Marion County, IL
The best window to plant Lentils in Marion County, is March 27–April 17, when soil warms to 50°F. Last frost typically hits April 10; first frost October 19. A second sowing from August 10 to August 24 extends the harvest into fall.
When to Plant Lentils in Marion County, IL
Lentils are an ancient pulse crop producing small, lens-shaped seeds packed with protein and iron. They grow on short, bushy plants and are surprisingly easy to cultivate.
Marion County, Illinois is in USDA Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 10 and the first fall frost is October 19, giving you a growing season of approximately 192 days.
At an elevation of 964 feet, Marion County receives approximately 40.5 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 89°F, providing good warmth for Lentils during the growing season.
Marion County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Lentils Planting Timeline — Marion County, IL
Lentils Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 6 | Mar 6 – Mar 20 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 10 | Apr 10 – Apr 24 |
| Direct Sow | March 27 | Mar 27 – Apr 17 |
| Harvest | July 3 | Jul 3 – Aug 14 |
| Fall Sowing | August 10 | Aug 10 – Aug 24 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 6" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Start Indoors Direct Sow |
| April | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| May | — |
| June | — |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Fall Sowing Harvest |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
Low — drought tolerant
📅 Days to Maturity
80–110 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–8 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 6b
📆 Growing Season
192 days in Marion County
Growing Tips for Marion County
Direct sow in early spring as lentils tolerate frost. Provide short supports as plants tend to lodge. Harvest when lower pods turn brown. Pull entire plants and dry in bundles.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
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Lentils in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Lentils in Marion County, IL?
Marion County is in Zone 6b with an average last frost of April 10. Plan your Lentils planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Marion County, IL?
Marion County, Illinois is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 10 and first fall frost is October 19.
When should I plant Lentils in Marion County, IL?
In Marion County, IL, plant Lentils after the last frost (around April 10) and before the first frost (around October 19). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Marion County, IL for Lentils?
Marion County sits in USDA Zone 6b. Lentils grows reliably in zones 2a through 10b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Lentils grow in Marion County's climate?
Yes — Lentils grows well in Marion County's temperate climate. Marion County averages a 192-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 10 and first frost around October 19.
Your Marion County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Marion 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.