When to plant Cilantro in Scheller, IL
For Scheller, gardeners: plant Cilantro March 26 through April 16 once soil reads 50°F. A second sowing from August 11 to August 25 extends the harvest into fall.
When to Plant Cilantro in Scheller, IL
Cilantro is a dual-purpose herb providing fresh leaves (cilantro) and dried seeds (coriander). It bolts quickly in heat, producing flowers beloved by beneficial insects.
Scheller, Illinois is in USDA Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 9 and the first fall frost is October 20, giving you a growing season of approximately 194 days.
At an elevation of 509 feet, Jefferson County receives approximately 34 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 88°F, providing good warmth for Cilantro during the growing season.
Scheller Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.1-7.1
Drainage
Well Drained
Monthly Watering Guide for Cilantro
Cilantro needs approximately 1 inches of water per week (4.3" per month). Here's how your county's rainfall compares month by month.
| Month | Cilantro Needs | Rainfall | You Supplement | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | — | 1.5" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 1.4" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | — | 2.5" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Apr | 4.3" | 3.2" | 1.1" | 💧 Light watering |
| May | 4.3" | 4.3" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jun | 4.3" | 3.9" | 0.4" | 💧 Light watering |
| Jul | 4.3" | 3.8" | 0.5" | 💧 Light watering |
| Aug | 4.3" | 3.4" | 0.9" | 💧 Light watering |
| Sep | 4.3" | 3" | 1.3" | 💧 Light watering |
| Oct | 4.3" | 2.9" | 1.4" | 💧 Light watering |
| Nov | — | 2.3" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Dec | — | 1.8" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Apr–Oct in Jefferson County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Cilantro Planting Timeline — Scheller, IL
Cilantro Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 5 | Mar 5 – Mar 19 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 2 | Apr 2 – Apr 16 |
| Direct Sow | March 26 | Mar 26 – Apr 16 |
| Harvest | May 14 | May 14 – Jul 16 |
| Fall Sowing | August 11 | Aug 11 – Aug 25 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" 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
40–60 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 6b
📆 Growing Season
194 days in Jefferson County
Growing Tips for Scheller
Succession sow every 2-3 weeks. Provide afternoon shade in warm weather. Harvest leaves before flowering or allow some plants to go to seed for coriander and self-sowing.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Cilantro in Other Locations
When should I plant Cilantro in Scheller, IL?
In Scheller, IL, plant Cilantro after the last frost (around April 9) and before the first frost (around October 20). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Scheller, IL for Cilantro?
Scheller sits in USDA Zone 6b. Cilantro grows reliably in zones 2a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Cilantro grow in Scheller's climate?
Yes — Cilantro grows well in Scheller's temperate climate. Scheller averages a 194-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 9 and first frost around October 20.
Your Jefferson County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Jefferson 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.