Dunlap, IL — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
Top priorities for Dunlap, IL gardeners in June
June is a pivotal month for Dunlap, IL gardens. Focus on these tasks first and you'll set up the rest of the season for success.
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Start basil, pole beans, and thai basil under lights
Your window is short. These crops want several weeks of indoor growth before they go outside.
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Bring in the carrots, green beans, and kale
Check every 1–2 days. Many of these get tough or go to seed if you wait too long.
Looking ahead to July
- Starting indoors: peppers, begonias, and eggplant
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
Dunlap gardens in a maritime climate — mild wet winters, cool dry summers (35" 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 (15.1 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 23
🍂 Avg. First Frost
October 12
📅 Growing Season
172 days
🌧️ Climate
Moderate 35.5" annual
💨 Wind
Moderate 7.8 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
15.1 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Dunlap
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
Why this matters: Most vegetables want about 1 inch of water per week. Dunlap gets 35" a year — months that hit that 1"/week need zero supplemental watering; months that fall short, the table tells you how much to add. Saves you from drowning roots and from drought-stressing plants into bolting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 1.4 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.5 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Mar | 2.4 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Apr | 3.5 in | 9 days | 0.8 in | Moderate |
| May | 4.2 in | 9 days | 0.1 in | Low |
| Jun | 3.9 in | 10 days | 0.4 in | Low |
| Jul | 3.2 in | 7 days | 1.1 in | Moderate |
| Aug | 3.4 in | 8 days | 0.9 in | Moderate |
| Sep | 3.2 in | 7 days | 1.1 in | Moderate |
| Oct | 2.8 in | 8 days | 1.5 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 1.9 in | 9 days | — | None |
| Dec | 1.8 in | 7 days | — | None |
Annual total: 33.2 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.
Dunlap Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.1-7
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 8 | Oct 28 | 173 days |
| Cautious | Apr 28 | Oct 19 | 174 days |
| Average year | Apr 23 | Oct 12 | 172 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 17 | Oct 8 | 174 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 9 | Oct 1 | 175 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±29 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 2.9 days per decade). Use the "Conservative" dates and choose fast-maturing varieties.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Peoria County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Peoria 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 Peoria County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Peoria 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 Peoria County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Peoria County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Peoria 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 Peoria County IL" or "garden center Peoria 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 Peoria County IL" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Peoria 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 Dunlap
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Quick context: Day length is the trigger that tells lettuce, spinach, and cilantro to bolt. In Dunlap, knowing when that day-length threshold arrives helps you plant a final round in time to harvest before it bolts.
Longest Day
14.9 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.1 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
10 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 | 3.8 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.4 hr | 4.6 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 5.8 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.1 hr | 6.9 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.3 hr | 8.6 hr | Long day |
| June | 14.9 hr | 9.1 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.7 hr | 10 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.6 hr | 8.3 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 | 3.5 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Dunlap
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Quick context: 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. Dunlap'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 May 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 | 24°F | 32°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 25°F | 31°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 33°F | 34°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 47°F | 44°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| May | 60°F | 54°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 69°F | 65°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 76°F | 70°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 78°F | 73°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 73°F | 69°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 59°F | 61°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 42°F | 50°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Dec | 31°F | 38°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 Dunlap
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
For new gardeners: Pest pressure is a function of climate, not effort. Dunlap's baseline tells you how much vigilance is normal. A bad pest year in low-pressure region = a normal year in high-pressure region.
Insect Pest Pressure
Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.
Disease Risk
Low disease risk — dry conditions reduce fungal problems.
Seasonal Risk
View 5 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Japanese beetles | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash bugs | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Tomato hornworms | Low | Jul, Aug |
| Cabbage loopers | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug |
Organic pest management tips
- Maintain healthy soil with regular compost additions to build natural pest resistance
- Practice crop rotation annually to break pest cycles
- Encourage beneficial insects with flowering herbs like dill, fennel, and yarrow
Cover Crops for Dunlap
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 do four things at once: fix nitrogen (legumes), suppress weeds (any), prevent erosion, and add organic matter when chopped down. Dunlap's seasonal pattern determines which species fit which gap.
Spring Cover Crops (3 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Apr 27 | Aug 10 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 25 | Aug 17 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 24 | Aug 10 | ✓ 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 22 | Sep 28 | — | 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 16 | Apr 2 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Daikon radish | Aug 17 | Apr 2 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Jul 23 | Apr 2 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 5 | Apr 9 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 8 | Apr 2 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 23 | Apr 2 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Dunlap
Why it matters: Plants lose water through tiny leaf pores. Wind accelerates that loss dramatically — a 15 mph day can double a calm day's irrigation need. Dunlap's 7.8 mph background wind is something to design around, not against. Windbreaks made of perennial shrubs save more water than any drip system.
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 12 mph Summer: 9 mph
Fall: 11 mph Winter: 13 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
7.3/10
Strongly recommended — a windbreak (fence, hedge, or row of tall crops like corn or sunflowers) will significantly improve garden yields.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (148 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Dunlap
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
The practical takeaway: Even in arid regions, rainwater harvesting works — you just need bigger storage and patience. In wet regions like Dunlap (35" annually), you're mostly limited by how much water you can store between storms.
Annual Collection
16,546 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 1,750 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 33.2 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 16,546 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 Dunlap
107 vegetables matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Dunlap.
Show all 107 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 19 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Jul 30 – Sep 3 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 26 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Aug 6 – Sep 24 | 90–120 |
| Arugula | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 3 | May 28 – Jul 30 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 7 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Apr 9 | — | Aug 3 | Jun 4 – Jul 2 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 3 | Aug 13 – Oct 8 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 26 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Jul 9 – Aug 20 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Apr 30 | — | — | Jul 30 – Sep 17 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 3 | Jun 4 – Jul 9 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 3 | Jun 25 – Aug 6 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 3 | Jun 4 – Jul 9 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 3 | Jul 23 – Sep 17 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 19 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Aug 6 – Sep 10 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 3 | Jun 25 – Aug 20 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 26 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Jul 30 – Sep 24 | 80–120 |
| Carrots | — | Apr 9 | — | Aug 3 | Jun 11 – Jul 16 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 3 | Jun 18 – Aug 20 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 3 | Aug 6 – Sep 10 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 3 | Jul 16 – Sep 10 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 3 | Jun 25 – Aug 6 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 3 | Jun 18 – Aug 6 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 3 | Jul 16 – Aug 27 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 3 | Jun 25 – Aug 6 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 3 | Jun 18 – Jul 16 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 26 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Jul 30 – Sep 3 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 3 | Jun 18 – Aug 20 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Apr 30 | — | — | Jul 2 – Aug 27 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Apr 30 | — | — | Jul 2 – Aug 13 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 3 | May 7 – May 28 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 19 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Jun 25 – Jul 23 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Apr 9 | — | Aug 3 | Sep 10 – Oct 22 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 19 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Jul 2 – Aug 27 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Apr 9 | — | Aug 3 | Jun 4 – Jul 2 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 19 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Jul 30 – Sep 3 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Apr 30 | — | — | Jul 16 – Aug 27 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 12 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 17 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 3 | Jun 11 – Jul 16 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 3 | Jun 18 – Jul 16 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 3 | Jul 9 – Aug 20 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 26 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Jul 9 – Aug 20 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Aug 31 | Nov 30 – Mar 15 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | Apr 30 | — | — | Jun 25 – Aug 20 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | May 7 | — | Sep 10 – Nov 19 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 12 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Jul 16 – Oct 22 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 19 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Aug 20 – Sep 24 | 100–120 |
| Kabocha | Mar 19 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Aug 6 – Sep 3 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 3 | Jun 11 – Jul 9 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 3 | Jun 18 – Aug 13 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 30 | — | — | Jul 30 – Sep 3 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 3 | Jun 11 – Jul 16 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 3 | May 28 – Jul 2 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 3 | Jul 23 – Oct 8 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 3 | Jul 16 – Aug 27 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 3 | May 28 – Aug 6 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Apr 30 | — | — | Jul 2 – Aug 13 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Feb 26 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Aug 20 – Oct 22 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Feb 26 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Aug 6 – Oct 22 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 3 | Jun 4 – Jul 9 | 40–60 |
| Melon | Mar 19 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 3 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 3 | Apr 30 – May 28 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Aug 3 | Jun 11 – Aug 6 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 3 | May 28 – Jun 25 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 3 | May 28 – Jul 30 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 3 | Jun 18 – Jul 23 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 26 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Jul 2 – Jul 30 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 26 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Jul 2 – Aug 27 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 3 | Jul 23 – Sep 10 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 3 | Jun 4 – Jul 2 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Apr 9 | — | Aug 3 | Jul 23 – Sep 3 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 19 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Jun 25 – Jul 23 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 3 | Jun 18 – Aug 13 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 12 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 17 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 26 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Jul 2 – Aug 27 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 26 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 24 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 19 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Aug 6 – Sep 24 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 3 | Jun 4 – Jul 9 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 3 | Jun 25 – Jul 30 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Apr 9 | — | Aug 3 | May 7 – May 28 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 14 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 3 | Jul 9 – Aug 20 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Apr 9 | — | Aug 3 | Jul 2 – Aug 6 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Apr 9 | — | Aug 3 | Jul 23 – Sep 3 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 3 | Jul 2 – Aug 27 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 3 | Jun 18 – Jul 16 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 26 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Jul 9 – Aug 13 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 3 | Jul 23 – Sep 10 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Mar 5 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Jul 2 – Aug 27 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 26 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Jul 2 – Aug 27 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 3 | Jun 18 – Aug 13 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Apr 30 | — | — | Jul 23 – Sep 17 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 19 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Aug 6 – Sep 3 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 3 | May 28 – Jul 30 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 19 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Jun 25 – Aug 27 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 19 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Jul 30 – Sep 24 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | May 7 | — | Aug 27 – Oct 22 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Apr 30 | — | — | Jul 2 – Aug 13 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 26 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Aug 6 – Sep 24 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 3 | May 28 – Jul 2 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 26 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 17 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 26 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 17 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Apr 9 | — | Aug 3 | May 21 – Jun 25 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 3 | Jun 4 – Jul 9 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 19 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 3 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Apr 30 | — | — | Jun 25 – Aug 20 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 26 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Aug 6 – Sep 24 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 26 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Jul 2 – Aug 13 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 19 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Jun 25 – Aug 20 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Dunlap
27 fruits matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Dunlap.
Show all 27 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | May 14 | — | Aug 13 – Nov 26 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | May 14 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | May 14 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | May 14 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | May 14 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | May 14 | — | Jul 23 – Aug 27 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | May 14 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | May 14 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | May 14 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | May 14 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | May 14 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | May 14 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | May 14 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | May 14 | — | Jul 23 – Sep 17 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | May 14 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | May 14 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | May 14 | — | Aug 6 – Sep 17 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | May 14 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | May 14 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Medlar | — | — | May 14 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | May 14 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | May 14 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | May 14 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Quince | — | — | May 14 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | May 14 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | May 14 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | May 14 | — | Aug 13 – Nov 26 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Dunlap
35 herbs matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Dunlap.
Show all 35 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Aug 3 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Aug 3 | Jul 16 – Oct 1 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Mar 5 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Jul 2 – Sep 3 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 30 – Oct 15 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Aug 3 | Jun 11 – Jul 30 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Aug 3 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 2 – Sep 3 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Aug 3 | Jun 18 – Aug 27 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Aug 3 | May 28 – Jul 30 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 2 – Sep 10 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Aug 3 | May 28 – Jul 30 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 2 – Sep 10 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Aug 3 | Jul 30 – Oct 1 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Aug 3 | May 28 – Jul 30 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Mar 5 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Jun 25 – Aug 20 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Aug 3 | Jun 18 – Aug 27 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 30 – Oct 15 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 2 – Sep 10 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 10 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 10 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 2 – Aug 20 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 10 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 10 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 2 – Sep 10 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 2 – Sep 10 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 2 – Sep 10 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Aug 3 | Jun 18 – Aug 20 | 60–80 |
| Rue | — | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 10 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 10 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Apr 30 | — | Jun 25 – Aug 20 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Aug 3 | May 28 – Jul 30 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 2 – Sep 10 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Mar 5 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Jul 2 – Sep 3 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 10 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Apr 30 | — | Sep 3 – Nov 12 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Dunlap
53 flowers matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Dunlap.
Show all 53 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Mar 5 | Apr 23 | Apr 23 | — | Jun 18 – Sep 24 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Aug 31 | Sep 28 – Oct 26 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | Mar 26 | — | Apr 23 | — | May 28 – Jun 25 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Feb 19 | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 17 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | Apr 23 | Aug 31 | Jun 25 – Sep 10 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Feb 12 | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 9 – Oct 8 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Feb 19 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | — | Jul 16 – Oct 29 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Feb 19 | — | Apr 30 | — | Jun 25 – Jul 30 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Mar 12 | Mar 26 | Apr 23 | — | Jun 11 – Sep 10 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | Mar 26 | — | — | Jun 4 – Jul 16 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Mar 19 | Apr 30 | Apr 30 | — | Jul 2 – Oct 15 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Feb 19 | May 7 | May 7 | — | Jul 2 – Aug 6 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Feb 19 | Apr 30 | Apr 30 | — | Jul 9 – Oct 29 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Mar 26 | Apr 23 | Apr 23 | — | Jul 2 – Oct 8 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Aug 31 | Jul 20 – Aug 10 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Aug 31 | Jul 27 – Aug 17 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Mar 26 | Apr 30 | Apr 30 | — | Jul 16 – Oct 29 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Feb 19 | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 16 – Oct 29 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Feb 26 | Mar 26 | Apr 9 | — | May 28 – Aug 27 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Feb 19 | May 7 | May 7 | — | Jul 30 – Nov 5 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Feb 19 | Apr 30 | Apr 30 | — | Jun 25 – Jul 30 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Mar 5 | Apr 30 | Apr 30 | — | Jul 9 – Nov 12 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Feb 12 | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 9 – Oct 8 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Apr 23 | Apr 23 | — | Jul 9 – Oct 22 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Feb 12 | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 16 – Oct 29 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Aug 31 | Aug 17 – Sep 7 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Feb 12 | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 9 – Oct 15 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Feb 26 | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 9 – Oct 15 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Apr 30 | — | Jun 25 – Jul 23 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Mar 26 | — | — | Jun 4 – Jul 30 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Feb 12 | — | May 7 | — | Jul 16 – Sep 10 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Apr 30 | — | Jul 9 – Oct 15 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Feb 19 | — | Apr 9 | — | Jun 4 – Aug 27 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Feb 19 | Apr 30 | Apr 30 | — | Jun 25 – Jul 30 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Mar 12 | Apr 30 | Apr 30 | — | Jun 25 – Sep 24 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Mar 26 | Apr 30 | Apr 30 | — | Jun 25 – Oct 15 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Feb 12 | — | Apr 23 | Aug 17 | Jun 18 – Aug 20 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | Apr 30 | — | Jul 2 – Aug 6 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Feb 26 | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 9 – Oct 15 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Feb 19 | Apr 30 | Apr 30 | — | Jul 9 – Oct 1 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 19 | Apr 30 | Apr 30 | — | Jun 18 – Oct 1 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | Mar 12 | — | Apr 23 | — | Jun 4 – Jul 2 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Feb 12 | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 9 – Oct 29 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Feb 19 | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 9 – Oct 15 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Feb 19 | — | Apr 30 | — | Aug 20 – Nov 5 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Feb 12 | Apr 2 | Apr 23 | — | Jul 2 – Sep 10 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Apr 2 | Apr 30 | Apr 30 | — | Jul 23 – Oct 15 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Mar 5 | Apr 2 | Apr 23 | — | Jun 4 – Aug 13 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | Mar 12 | Mar 19 | Apr 23 | — | Jul 9 – Sep 17 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Aug 31 | Aug 10 – Sep 7 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Feb 12 | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 9 – Oct 15 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Feb 19 | Apr 23 | Apr 30 | — | Jul 9 – Oct 29 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Mar 26 | Apr 30 | Apr 30 | — | Jul 9 – Oct 15 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Dunlap
ZIP Codes in Dunlap
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 Peoria County.
Your Peoria County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Peoria 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