When to plant Arugula in Montgomery County, IL
In Montgomery County, plant Arugula in spring between March 30 and April 20, once soil temps hold above 50°F. Montgomery County's last frost averages April 13, so time plantings around the expected last-frost window for best survival. For a fall crop, sow between August 12 and August 26 — roughly 30–50 days before the first frost on October 21.
When to Plant Arugula in Montgomery County, IL
Arugula is a fast-growing cool-season green with a peppery, nutty flavor. It is excellent in salads and can be harvested as baby greens or mature leaves.
Montgomery County, Illinois is in USDA Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 13 and the first fall frost is October 21, giving you a growing season of approximately 191 days.
At an elevation of 1,331 feet, Montgomery County receives approximately 30.1 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 88°F, providing good warmth for Arugula during the growing season.
Montgomery County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.1-7.2
Drainage
Well Drained
Monthly Watering Guide for Arugula
Arugula needs approximately 1 inches of water per week (4.3" per month). Here's how your county's rainfall compares month by month.
| Month | Arugula Needs | Rainfall | You Supplement | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | — | 1.3" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 1.2" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | — | 2.1" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Apr | 4.3" | 2.6" | 1.7" | 💧 Light watering |
| May | 4.3" | 3.3" | 1" | 💧 Light watering |
| Jun | 4.3" | 3.3" | 1" | 💧 Light watering |
| Jul | 4.3" | 3.7" | 0.6" | 💧 Light watering |
| Aug | 4.3" | 3.1" | 1.2" | 💧 Light watering |
| Sep | 4.3" | 3.1" | 1.2" | 💧 Light watering |
| Oct | 4.3" | 2.4" | 1.9" | 💧 Light watering |
| Nov | — | 2.1" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Dec | — | 1.9" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Apr–Oct in Montgomery County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Arugula Planting Timeline — Montgomery County, IL
Arugula Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 9 | Mar 9 – Mar 23 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 13 | Apr 13 – Apr 27 |
| Direct Sow | March 30 | Mar 30 – Apr 20 |
| Harvest | May 18 | May 18 – Jul 20 |
| Fall Sowing | August 12 | Aug 12 – Aug 26 |
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 | Harvest |
| June | Harvest |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Fall Sowing |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Partial Shade (3-6 hours)
💧 Water
Moderate — regular watering
📅 Days to Maturity
30–50 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 6b
📆 Growing Season
191 days in Montgomery County
Growing Tips for Montgomery County
Sow seeds directly every 2-3 weeks for continuous harvest. Provide afternoon shade in warm weather to prevent bolting. Harvest outer leaves first to extend production.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Arugula in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Arugula in Montgomery County, IL?
Montgomery County is in Zone 6b with an average last frost of April 13. Plan your Arugula planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Montgomery County, IL?
Montgomery County, Illinois is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 13 and first fall frost is October 21.
When should I plant Arugula in Montgomery County, IL?
In Montgomery County, IL, plant Arugula after the last frost (around April 13) and before the first frost (around October 21). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Montgomery County, IL for Arugula?
Montgomery County sits in USDA Zone 6b. Arugula grows reliably in zones 3a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Arugula grow in Montgomery County's climate?
Yes — Arugula grows well in Montgomery County's temperate climate. Montgomery County averages a 191-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 13 and first frost around October 21.
Your Montgomery County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Montgomery 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.