When to plant Caraway in Massac County, IL
Aim to plant Caraway in Massac County on or after March 24; the window stays open through April 14. Massac County's 197-day frost-free season gives you enough for a full main crop and a short fall succession. A second sowing from August 12 to August 26 extends the harvest into fall.
When to Plant Caraway in Massac County, IL
Caraway is a biennial herb grown for its distinctive crescent-shaped seeds used in rye bread, sauerkraut, and European cuisine. The leaves and roots are also edible.
Massac County, Illinois is in USDA Zone 7a. The average last spring frost is April 7 and the first fall frost is October 21, giving you a growing season of approximately 197 days.
At an elevation of 778 feet, Massac County receives approximately 36 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 86°F, providing good warmth for Caraway during the growing season.
Massac County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Caraway Planting Timeline — Massac County, IL
Caraway Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 3 | Mar 3 – Mar 17 |
| Transplant Outdoors | March 31 | Mar 31 – Apr 14 |
| Direct Sow | March 24 | Mar 24 – Apr 14 |
| Fall Sowing | August 12 | Aug 12 – Aug 26 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Start Indoors Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| April | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| May | — |
| June | — |
| July | — |
| August | Fall Sowing |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
Moderate — regular watering
📅 Days to Maturity
365–450 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7.5 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 7a
📆 Growing Season
197 days in Massac County
Growing Tips for Massac County
Direct sow in spring or fall. Caraway produces seeds in its second year. Harvest seed heads when they turn brown. The young leaves can be used like parsley.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
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Caraway in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Caraway in Massac County, IL?
Massac County is in Zone 7a with an average last frost of April 7. Plan your Caraway planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Massac County, IL?
Massac County, Illinois is in USDA Hardiness Zone 7a. The average last spring frost is April 7 and first fall frost is October 21.
When should I plant Caraway in Massac County, IL?
In Massac County, IL, plant Caraway after the last frost (around April 7) and before the first frost (around October 21). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Massac County, IL for Caraway?
Massac County sits in USDA Zone 7a. Caraway grows reliably in zones 3a through 9b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Caraway grow in Massac County's climate?
Yes — Caraway grows well in Massac County's temperate climate. Massac County averages a 197-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 7 and first frost around October 21.
Your Massac County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Massac 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.