Delavan, IL — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
June in Tazewell County, Illinois — your action list
June rewards gardeners who work with the weather, not against it. Here's how to stay in step this month in Tazewell County, Illinois.
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Indoor seed-starting week for basil, peppers, and pole beans
Give them 6–8 weeks indoors before the last frost and you'll transplant into warm soil with seedlings that are already leaping.
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It's harvest week for basil, carrots, and cucumber
The more you pick, the more the plant produces. Letting fruit overripen tells the plant it's time to stop.
Looking ahead to July
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
Delavan gardens in a maritime climate — mild wet winters, cool dry summers (37" annual rainfall, most of it October to April). Cool-season crops like peas, lettuce, kale, and brassicas thrive almost year-round. The challenge is summer heat: long-season warm-weather crops (full-size tomatoes, peppers, melons) need every bit of summer sun, so prioritize short-season varieties, use dark mulches to warm the soil, and reserve your warmest microclimates (south-facing walls, near pavement) for the tender stuff.
Soils trend Silt Loam — the gold standard for vegetables. Add 2–3" of compost annually to maintain it and you'll outgrow most of your neighbors.
Drought pressure is moderate (17.0 weeks/year on average). Mulching and drip irrigation pay for themselves quickly.
🌡️ USDA Zone
6a (-10°F to -5°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
April 19
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 15
📅 Growing Season
179 days
🌧️ Climate
Moderate 37.4" annual
💨 Wind
Moderate 7.8 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
17.0 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Delavan
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
Why this matters: In humid climates, watering is usually about timing (morning, not evening, to prevent disease) more than volume. In dry climates, it's about depth (water deep, less often) more than frequency. Delavan's 37" annual tells you which side you're on.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 1.9 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.7 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Mar | 2.6 in | 10 days | — | None |
| Apr | 3.9 in | 10 days | 0.4 in | Low |
| May | 5.2 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Jun | 5.1 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 3.9 in | 8 days | 0.4 in | Low |
| Aug | 4.7 in | 8 days | — | Low |
| Sep | 3.3 in | 8 days | 1 in | Moderate |
| Oct | 3.1 in | 7 days | 1.2 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 2.6 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Dec | 1.9 in | 8 days | — | None |
Annual total: 39.9 in. Water needs vary by crop — tomatoes need ~1.2"/week while herbs like rosemary need only 0.3"/week. Check individual plant pages for crop-specific water budgets that factor in your county's rainfall and soil drainage.
Delavan Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.3-6.9
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data from 3 stations
Beginners: Plant frost-sensitive crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) after the "Safe" date on the left. Harvest or cover them before the "Protect by" date on the right. Hardy crops (lettuce, peas, kale) can go in the yellow transition zones.
How to read this table: "Conservative" means you're safe from frost 9 out of 10 years — best for beginners and frost-sensitive crops. "Average year" is the typical date. "Aggressive" means only 1 in 10 years is that warm — experienced gardeners with frost protection can try these dates.
| Planting Strategy | Last Spring Frost | First Fall Frost | Frost-Free Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conservative (safest) | May 3 | Oct 28 | 178 days |
| Cautious | Apr 24 | Oct 21 | 180 days |
| Average year | Apr 19 | Oct 15 | 179 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 14 | Oct 9 | 178 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 6 | Oct 3 | 180 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±27 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Yes — growing seasons are getting shorter here (about 2.5 days per decade). Use the "Conservative" dates and choose fast-maturing varieties.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Tazewell County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Tazewell County
Free expert help is closer than you think. Your county's cooperative extension office connects you with trained gardeners, soil testing labs, and local programs — all specific to Tazewell County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Tazewell County University of Illinois Extension Extension Office
Phone: 217-333-7672
Visit Extension Office Website →
Extension offices are run by land-grant universities and funded by the USDA. Their advice is free, research-based, and tailored to your county's specific conditions.
Master Gardener Program
Free gardening help from trained volunteers
Master Gardeners are community volunteers who complete 40–60 hours of university horticultural training. They answer gardening questions, diagnose plant problems, and offer workshops — all free.
Many extension offices run a Master Gardener hotline where you can call or email with photos of plant problems for free diagnosis.
Soil Testing
Available through your extension office
Before amending your soil, get it tested. Your extension office offers soil testing (typically $10–$25) that tells you exact pH, nutrient levels, and amendment recommendations specific to what you want to grow.
Services Available in Tazewell County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Tazewell County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Tazewell County's soil and climate that big-box stores can't. Plants from local growers are typically hardier because they're already acclimated to your zone.
How to Find Them
Search for "nurseries near Tazewell County IL" or "garden center Tazewell County" on Google Maps. Also check with your extension office — they often maintain lists of reputable local nurseries and plant sales.
Community gardens & gardening groups
Community gardens are a great way to learn from experienced gardeners in your area, especially if you're limited on space. Search "community garden Tazewell County IL" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Tazewell County Gardeners" or "Illinois Gardening" are also excellent for local advice and plant swaps.
What to Plant After Your Harvest
After your first crops finish, use the remaining frost-free days to grow a second round.
Show 6 more succession options
Sunlight & Day Length in Delavan
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
The practical takeaway: The longest day at Delavan's latitude gets longer the further north you go. Strawberries, garlic, onions all care. The shortest day gets shorter — which limits winter growing for greens without artificial light.
Longest Day
14.9 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.1 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
9.6 hr/day peak (summer)
Peak sun hours (green dashed line below) account for cloud cover — this is the usable direct sunlight your garden actually receives. Most vegetables need 6+ peak sun hours.
Onion tip: Your long summer days (14+ hours) support long-day onion varieties like Walla Walla, Sweet Spanish, and Ailsa Craig.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Daylight Hours | Peak Sun Hours | Day Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 9.4 hr | 3.9 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.4 hr | 4.5 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 5.5 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.1 hr | 6.6 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.3 hr | 8.1 hr | Long day |
| June | 14.9 hr | 9.6 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.6 hr | 9.5 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.6 hr | 8.5 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.3 hr | 7.4 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.9 hr | 5.5 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.7 hr | 3.9 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.1 hr | 3.4 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Delavan
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
What this means for you: Air temperature lies. Your air can be 70°F in April but the soil 4 inches down is still 50°F — too cold for tomatoes or peppers to root properly. Delavan's soil temperature curve tells you the real planting window. A $5 soil thermometer pays for itself in one season.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from Jun through Sep.
Best Month to Compost
Jun
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
6 months
Solid season. Piles go dormant in winter.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 25°F | 31°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 23°F | 29°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 31°F | 36°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 45°F | 45°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| May | 60°F | 54°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 70°F | 64°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 75°F | 70°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 80°F | 73°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 70°F | 71°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 57°F | 60°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 42°F | 49°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Dec | 28°F | 39°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
Highlighted rows = soil 60°F+ (safe for warm-season transplants). Compost finishes fastest during peak activity months.
Pest & Disease Pressure in Delavan
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
The practical takeaway: Warm humid regions cycle through pest generations 3-5x faster than cold dry regions. Delavan's pest score is your early-warning system: high score means commit to disease-resistant varieties and accept some crop loss to bugs.
Insect Pest Pressure
Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.
Disease Risk
Moderate — watch for mildew and blight during wet periods.
Seasonal Risk
View 6 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Japanese beetles | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash bugs | Low | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Tomato hornworms | Moderate | Jul, Aug |
| Cabbage loopers | Low | May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Slugs | Low | Apr, May, Jun |
Organic pest management tips
- Use row covers on susceptible crops during peak pest months
- Apply neem oil preventatively every 7-14 days during active pest season
- Interplant with strong-scented herbs (basil, marigold) to confuse pests
- Hand-pick larger pests (beetles, caterpillars) in early morning when they're sluggish
- Practice crop rotation — never plant the same family in the same spot within 3 years
Cover Crops for Delavan
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
Why this matters: Cover crops protect microbial life through winter and summer. Bare soil bakes; covered soil stays cooler, moister, and biologically active. The difference shows up in next year's crops.
Spring Cover Crops (3 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Apr 24 | Aug 13 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | May 2 | Aug 13 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 23 | Aug 13 | ✓ Yes | Living mulch, fixes nitrogen, permanent ground cover |
Summer Cover Crops (1 options) — Fill gaps and suppress weeds between plantings
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sunflowers | May 11 | Sep 24 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Fall Cover Crops (6 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austrian winter peas | Aug 8 | Apr 5 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Daikon radish | Sep 6 | Mar 29 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 8 | Apr 5 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 15 | Apr 5 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 16 | Mar 29 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 8 | Mar 29 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Delavan
Why it matters: Wind shapes the garden you don't think about: bee paths, evaporation, structural stress on tomato cages. Delavan's 7.8 mph background level is a baseline you should know before placing the tallest crops (sunflowers, pole beans, sweet corn).
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 13 mph Summer: 9 mph
Fall: 9 mph Winter: 11 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
4.8/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (285 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Delavan
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Quick context: The first inch of rain washes the roof clean — a first-flush diverter sends it to waste before the barrel fills. Worth the extra $20 for cleaner garden water. Delavan gets 37" annually, so you'll fill and flush many times per year.
Annual Collection
19,886 gal
Per 1,000 sq ft of roof area (at 80% collection efficiency)
Recommended Setup
6 rain barrels (55 gal each)
For a typical 500 sq ft garden. Serious collectors: consider a 1,500 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
Apr, May, Jun, Aug
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
Jan, Feb, Dec
Dry months when you'll rely on stored water — size your storage for this gap.
Rainwater collection tips for your area
- Your county receives approximately 39.9 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 19,886 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Stock up on stored water before your dry season (Jan, Feb, Dec)
- Use a first-flush diverter to keep roof debris out of your collection
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Delavan
107 vegetables matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Delavan.
Show all 107 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 15 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Jul 26 – Aug 30 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 22 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Aug 2 – Sep 20 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 6 | May 24 – Jul 26 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 3 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Apr 5 | — | Aug 6 | May 31 – Jun 28 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 6 | Aug 9 – Oct 4 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 22 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 16 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Apr 26 | — | — | Jul 26 – Sep 13 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 6 | May 31 – Jul 5 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 6 | Jun 21 – Aug 2 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 6 | May 31 – Jul 5 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 6 | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 15 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Aug 2 – Sep 6 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 6 | Jun 21 – Aug 16 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 22 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Jul 26 – Sep 20 | 80–120 |
| Carrots | — | Apr 5 | — | Aug 6 | Jun 7 – Jul 12 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 6 | Jun 14 – Aug 16 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 6 | Aug 2 – Sep 6 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 6 | Jul 12 – Sep 6 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 6 | Jun 21 – Aug 2 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 6 | Jun 14 – Aug 2 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 6 | Jul 12 – Aug 23 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 6 | Jun 21 – Aug 2 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 6 | Jun 14 – Jul 12 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 22 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Jul 26 – Aug 30 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 6 | Jun 14 – Aug 16 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Apr 26 | — | — | Jun 28 – Aug 23 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Apr 26 | — | — | Jun 28 – Aug 9 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 6 | May 3 – May 24 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 15 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Jun 21 – Jul 19 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Apr 5 | — | Aug 6 | Sep 6 – Oct 18 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 15 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 23 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Apr 5 | — | Aug 6 | May 31 – Jun 28 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 15 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Jul 26 – Aug 30 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Apr 26 | — | — | Jul 12 – Aug 23 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 8 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Jul 12 – Sep 13 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 6 | Jun 7 – Jul 12 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 6 | Jun 14 – Jul 12 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 6 | Jul 5 – Aug 16 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 22 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 16 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 3 | Dec 3 – Mar 18 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | Apr 26 | — | — | Jun 21 – Aug 16 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 3 | — | Sep 6 – Nov 15 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 8 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Jul 12 – Oct 18 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 15 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Aug 16 – Sep 20 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Mar 15 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Aug 2 – Aug 30 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 6 | Jun 7 – Jul 5 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 6 | Jun 14 – Aug 9 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 26 | — | — | Jul 26 – Aug 30 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 6 | Jun 7 – Jul 12 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 6 | May 24 – Jun 28 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 6 | Jul 19 – Oct 4 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 6 | Jul 12 – Aug 23 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 6 | May 24 – Aug 2 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Apr 26 | — | — | Jun 28 – Aug 9 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Feb 22 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Aug 16 – Oct 18 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Feb 22 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Aug 2 – Oct 18 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 6 | May 31 – Jul 5 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Mar 15 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Jul 12 – Aug 30 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 6 | Apr 26 – May 24 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | Aug 6 | Jun 7 – Aug 2 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 6 | May 24 – Jun 21 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 6 | May 24 – Jul 26 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 6 | Jun 14 – Jul 19 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 22 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Jun 28 – Jul 26 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 22 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 23 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 6 | Jul 19 – Sep 6 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 6 | May 31 – Jun 28 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Apr 5 | — | Aug 6 | Jul 19 – Aug 30 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 15 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Jun 21 – Jul 19 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 6 | Jun 14 – Aug 9 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 8 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Jul 5 – Sep 13 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 22 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 23 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 22 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Jul 12 – Sep 20 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 15 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Aug 2 – Sep 20 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 6 | May 31 – Jul 5 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 6 | Jun 21 – Jul 26 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Apr 5 | — | Aug 6 | May 3 – May 24 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 10 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 6 | Jul 5 – Aug 16 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Apr 5 | — | Aug 6 | Jun 28 – Aug 2 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Apr 5 | — | Aug 6 | Jul 19 – Aug 30 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 6 | Jun 28 – Aug 23 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 6 | Jun 14 – Jul 12 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 22 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Jul 5 – Aug 9 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 6 | Jul 19 – Sep 6 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 1 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 23 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 22 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 23 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 6 | Jun 14 – Aug 9 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Apr 26 | — | — | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 15 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Aug 2 – Aug 30 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 6 | May 24 – Jul 26 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 15 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 23 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 15 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Jul 26 – Sep 20 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 3 | — | Aug 23 – Oct 18 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Apr 26 | — | — | Jun 28 – Aug 9 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 22 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Aug 2 – Sep 20 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 6 | May 24 – Jun 28 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 22 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Jul 5 – Sep 13 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 22 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Jul 5 – Sep 13 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Apr 5 | — | Aug 6 | May 17 – Jun 21 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 19 | Aug 6 | May 31 – Jul 5 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 15 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Jul 12 – Aug 30 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Apr 26 | — | — | Jun 21 – Aug 16 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 22 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Aug 2 – Sep 20 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 22 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 9 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 15 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 16 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Delavan
27 fruits matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Delavan.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 10 | — | Aug 9 – Nov 22 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | May 10 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 10 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | May 10 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 10 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 10 | — | Jul 19 – Aug 23 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 10 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | May 10 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | May 10 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 10 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 10 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | May 10 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 10 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 10 | — | Jul 19 – Sep 13 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | May 10 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | May 10 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 10 | — | Aug 2 – Sep 13 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | May 10 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | May 10 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | May 10 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 10 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 10 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 10 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Quince | — | — | May 10 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 10 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 10 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 10 | — | Aug 9 – Nov 22 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Delavan
35 herbs matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Delavan.
Show all 35 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | Aug 6 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | Aug 6 | Jul 12 – Sep 27 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 1 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 30 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Apr 26 | — | Jul 26 – Oct 11 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | Aug 6 | Jun 7 – Jul 26 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | Aug 6 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 26 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 30 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | Aug 6 | Jun 14 – Aug 23 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | Aug 6 | May 24 – Jul 26 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 26 | — | Jun 28 – Sep 6 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | Aug 6 | May 24 – Jul 26 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 26 | — | Jun 28 – Sep 6 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | Aug 6 | Jul 26 – Sep 27 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | Aug 6 | May 24 – Jul 26 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Mar 1 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 16 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | Aug 6 | Jun 14 – Aug 23 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Apr 26 | — | Jul 26 – Oct 11 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Apr 26 | — | Jun 28 – Sep 6 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Apr 26 | — | Jul 12 – Sep 6 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Apr 26 | — | Jul 5 – Sep 6 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Apr 26 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 16 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Apr 26 | — | Jul 5 – Sep 6 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | Apr 26 | — | Jul 5 – Sep 6 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Apr 26 | — | Jun 28 – Sep 6 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Apr 26 | — | Jun 28 – Sep 6 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Apr 26 | — | Jun 28 – Sep 6 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | Aug 6 | Jun 14 – Aug 16 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | Apr 26 | — | Jul 5 – Sep 6 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Apr 26 | — | Jul 12 – Sep 6 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Apr 26 | — | Jun 21 – Aug 16 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 15 | Apr 5 | Apr 12 | Aug 6 | May 24 – Jul 26 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Apr 26 | — | Jun 28 – Sep 6 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 1 | Apr 26 | May 3 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 30 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Apr 26 | — | Jul 5 – Sep 6 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Apr 26 | — | Aug 30 – Nov 8 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Delavan
53 flowers matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Delavan.
Show all 53 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Mar 1 | Apr 19 | Apr 19 | — | Jun 14 – Sep 20 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Sep 3 | Oct 1 – Oct 29 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | Mar 22 | — | Apr 19 | — | May 24 – Jun 21 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Feb 15 | — | Apr 26 | — | Jul 5 – Sep 13 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Apr 19 | Sep 3 | Jun 21 – Sep 6 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Feb 8 | — | Apr 26 | — | Jul 5 – Oct 4 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Feb 15 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 12 – Oct 25 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Feb 15 | — | Apr 26 | — | Jun 21 – Jul 26 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Mar 8 | Mar 22 | Apr 19 | — | Jun 7 – Sep 6 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | Mar 22 | — | — | May 31 – Jul 12 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Mar 15 | Apr 26 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 28 – Oct 11 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Feb 15 | May 3 | May 3 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 2 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Feb 15 | Apr 26 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 5 – Oct 25 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Mar 22 | Apr 19 | Apr 19 | — | Jun 28 – Oct 4 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Sep 3 | Jul 23 – Aug 13 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Sep 3 | Jul 30 – Aug 20 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Mar 22 | Apr 26 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 12 – Oct 25 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Feb 15 | — | Apr 26 | — | Jul 12 – Oct 25 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Feb 22 | Mar 22 | Apr 5 | — | May 24 – Aug 23 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Feb 15 | May 3 | May 3 | — | Jul 26 – Nov 1 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Feb 15 | Apr 26 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 21 – Jul 26 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Mar 1 | Apr 26 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 5 – Nov 8 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Feb 8 | — | Apr 26 | — | Jul 5 – Oct 4 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Apr 19 | Apr 19 | — | Jul 5 – Oct 18 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Feb 8 | — | Apr 26 | — | Jul 12 – Oct 25 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Sep 3 | Aug 20 – Sep 10 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Feb 8 | — | Apr 26 | — | Jul 5 – Oct 11 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Feb 22 | — | Apr 26 | — | Jul 5 – Oct 11 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Apr 26 | — | Jun 21 – Jul 19 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Mar 22 | — | — | May 31 – Jul 26 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Feb 8 | — | May 3 | — | Jul 12 – Sep 6 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Apr 26 | — | Jul 5 – Oct 11 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Feb 15 | — | Apr 5 | — | May 31 – Aug 23 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Feb 15 | Apr 26 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 21 – Jul 26 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Mar 8 | Apr 26 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 21 – Sep 20 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Mar 22 | Apr 26 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 21 – Oct 11 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Feb 8 | — | Apr 19 | Aug 20 | Jun 14 – Aug 16 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | Apr 26 | — | Jun 28 – Aug 2 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Feb 22 | — | Apr 26 | — | Jul 5 – Oct 11 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Feb 15 | Apr 26 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 5 – Sep 27 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 15 | Apr 26 | Apr 26 | — | Jun 14 – Sep 27 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | Mar 8 | — | Apr 19 | — | May 31 – Jun 28 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Feb 8 | — | Apr 26 | — | Jul 5 – Oct 25 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Feb 15 | — | Apr 26 | — | Jul 5 – Oct 11 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Feb 15 | — | Apr 26 | — | Aug 16 – Nov 1 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Feb 8 | Mar 29 | Apr 19 | — | Jun 28 – Sep 6 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Mar 29 | Apr 26 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 19 – Oct 11 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Mar 1 | Mar 29 | Apr 19 | — | May 31 – Aug 9 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | Mar 8 | Mar 15 | Apr 19 | — | Jul 5 – Sep 13 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Sep 3 | Aug 13 – Sep 10 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Feb 8 | — | Apr 26 | — | Jul 5 – Oct 11 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Feb 15 | Apr 19 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 5 – Oct 25 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Mar 22 | Apr 26 | Apr 26 | — | Jul 5 – Oct 11 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Delavan
ZIP Codes in Delavan
Click any ZIP to see its specific frost, soil, and climate measurements (some ZIPs differ noticeably from the town aggregate):
Gardening Guides & Resources
Helpful guides from The Ultimate Homestead to improve your garden in Tazewell County.
Your Tazewell County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Tazewell 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.
The Gardener's Encyclopedia to Companion Planting
The pairings that make vegetables, herbs, and flowers grow better — and the ones that quietly wreck a bed.
- Proven pairings for 200+ vegetables, herbs, flowers, and fruits
- Full seed-starting + planting schedule with timing and spacing
- Bonus: square-foot gardening guide + printable seasonal planners
Seed Saving & Storage Guide
Most saved seeds go bad before next season. This shows exactly when to pick, how to dry, and where to store seeds from 200 plants so yours don't.
- 200 plants, step-by-step: life cycle, pollination type, isolation
- Exact temperature + humidity ranges that keep seeds viable
- Bonus: searchable Google Sheets tracker + custom GPT assistant
Composting Guide for Homesteaders
Turn kitchen scraps and yard waste into compost that actually feeds the garden — instead of a pile that smells, attracts pests, and never breaks down.
- 14 sections on composting methods, soil science, and troubleshooting
- The 7-step hot-compost system from start to finish
- Bonus tools: troubleshooting chart, safety guide, monitoring log