When to plant Strawberries in Marion County, IL
Marion County sits in cold Zone 6b. Plant Strawberries May 1–May 15 for the single annual harvest; the October 19 first frost closes the window.
When to Plant Strawberries in Marion 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.
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 Strawberries during the growing season.
Marion 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 Marion County's 192-day season, you'll have plenty of time for a full harvest. Plan your garden layout →
Strawberries Planting Timeline — Marion County, IL
Strawberries Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | May 1 | May 1 – May 15 |
| Harvest | July 31 | Jul 31 – Nov 13 |
· 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 | — |
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 6b
📆 Growing Season
192 days in Marion County
Growing Tips for Marion 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 Marion County, IL?
Marion County is in Zone 6b 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 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 Strawberries in Marion County, IL?
In Marion County, IL, plant Strawberries 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 Strawberries?
Marion County sits in USDA Zone 6b. Strawberries grows reliably in zones 3a through 10b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Strawberries grow in Marion County's climate?
Yes — Strawberries 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.