Steger, IL — Planting Guide for June
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Your June game plan for Steger, IL
Welcome to June in Zone 6a. These are the moves that will have the biggest impact on your growing season.
-
Indoor seed-starting week for basil, pole beans, and thai basil
You're about 18 weeks out from your last frost — the perfect window to get these germinating indoors.
-
Bring in the carrots, green beans, and kale
Don't tug. Use scissors or pruners for clean cuts — torn stems invite disease.
July prep starts now
- Starting indoors: peppers, begonias, and eggplant
- First harvests: basil, carrots, and cucumber
Steger gardens in a maritime climate — mild wet winters, cool dry summers (40" 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 (13.2 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 17
📅 Growing Season
177 days
🌧️ Climate
Moderate 40.0" annual
💨 Wind
Moderate 9.8 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
13.2 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
1 ZIP
Monthly Watering Calendar for Steger
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
Why this matters: A drip irrigation system pays for itself in 1-2 seasons in any climate. Steger's 40" annual rainfall determines whether you'll run it weekly (dry zones) or maybe just during summer dry spells (wet zones).
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 1.5 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Feb | 1.5 in | 6 days | — | None |
| Mar | 2.7 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Apr | 3.6 in | 10 days | 0.7 in | Moderate |
| May | 4.1 in | 11 days | 0.2 in | Low |
| Jun | 4.7 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 3.7 in | 8 days | 0.6 in | Moderate |
| Aug | 3.2 in | 9 days | 1.1 in | Moderate |
| Sep | 2.9 in | 8 days | 1.4 in | Moderate |
| Oct | 3 in | 7 days | 1.3 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 2.3 in | 7 days | — | None |
| Dec | 2.1 in | 8 days | — | None |
Annual total: 35.3 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.
Steger Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6-7
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data from 2 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 10 | Oct 31 | 174 days |
| Cautious | Apr 28 | Oct 24 | 179 days |
| Average year | Apr 23 | Oct 17 | 177 days |
| Optimistic | Apr 18 | Oct 11 | 176 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Apr 12 | Oct 5 | 176 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±28 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 longer here (about 1.2 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Cook County offers good growing conditions. A little planning around frost dates goes a long way.
Local Gardening Help in Cook 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 Cook County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Cook 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 Cook County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Cook County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Cook 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 Cook County IL" or "garden center Cook 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 Cook County IL" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Cook 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 Steger
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Why it matters: Plants use day length as their seasonal clock. Some crops flower when days lengthen (most flowers), some when days shorten (chrysanthemums, soybeans). Steger's curve is the timing layer beneath everything you grow.
Longest Day
15 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
9.9 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 | 9.3 hr | 3.8 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.4 hr | 4.6 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 5.5 hr | Short day |
| April | 13.1 hr | 6.8 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.4 hr | 8.7 hr | Long day |
| June | 15 hr | 9 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.8 hr | 9.9 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.7 hr | 8.8 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.3 hr | 7.2 hr | Neutral |
| October | 10.8 hr | 5.8 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.6 hr | 3.9 hr | Short day |
| December | 9 hr | 3.3 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Steger
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Why it matters: Cold soil = stunted starts. A bean seed planted in 55°F soil rots before it germinates. Same seed in 65°F soil sprouts in 5 days. Steger's soil temperature pattern shows you the difference month to month.
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 | 23°F | 31°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 23°F | 30°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Mar | 33°F | 34°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Apr | 46°F | 45°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| May | 59°F | 56°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Jun | 70°F | 63°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 76°F | 70°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 76°F | 74°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 70°F | 69°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 59°F | 60°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Nov | 42°F | 49°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Dec | 32°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 Steger
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
For new gardeners: Pest pressure scales with warmth and humidity. Hot humid Steger sees year-round bugs and fungal disease; cold dry regions see almost none. A high pest score means crop rotation, resistant varieties, and a weekly pest-watch routine from day one.
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 | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Tomato hornworms | Low | Jul, Aug |
| Cabbage loopers | Moderate | 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 Steger
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 are the experienced gardener's secret weapon. Steger's climate determines which species thrive: clover and vetch in mild winters, cereal rye and Austrian peas in cold ones.
Spring Cover Crops (3 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Apr 29 | Aug 15 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 28 | Aug 8 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 29 | Aug 8 | ✓ 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 7 | Sep 26 | — | 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 10 | Apr 2 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Daikon radish | Sep 1 | Apr 9 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 7 | Apr 2 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 10 | Apr 9 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Jul 12 | Apr 2 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Jul 12 | Apr 9 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Steger
Why this matters: Wind shapes the garden you don't think about: bee paths, evaporation, structural stress on tomato cages. Steger's 9.8 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: 12 mph Summer: 9 mph
Fall: 10 mph Winter: 12 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
5.4/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (122 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Steger
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Why it matters: Rainwater is unchlorinated, unfluoridated, and at ambient temperature — plants actually prefer it. Steger's 40" annual rainfall means even a small 50-gallon barrel catches enough for a few weeks of garden watering between storms.
Annual Collection
17,593 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, Jul
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 35.3 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 17,593 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 Steger
107 vegetables matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Steger.
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 8 | May 28 – Jul 30 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | May 7 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Apr 9 | — | Aug 8 | Jun 4 – Jul 2 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 8 | 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 8 | Jun 4 – Jul 9 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 8 | Jun 25 – Aug 6 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 8 | Jun 4 – Jul 9 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 8 | 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 8 | Jun 25 – Aug 20 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 26 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Jul 30 – Sep 24 | 80–120 |
| Carrots | — | Apr 9 | — | Aug 8 | Jun 11 – Jul 16 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 8 | Jun 18 – Aug 20 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 8 | Aug 6 – Sep 10 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 8 | Jul 16 – Sep 10 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 8 | Jun 25 – Aug 6 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 8 | Jun 18 – Aug 6 | 50–60 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 8 | Jul 16 – Aug 27 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 8 | Jun 25 – Aug 6 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 8 | 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 8 | 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 8 | May 7 – May 28 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 19 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Jun 25 – Jul 23 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Apr 9 | — | Aug 8 | Sep 10 – Oct 22 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 19 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Jul 2 – Aug 27 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Apr 9 | — | Aug 8 | 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 8 | Jun 11 – Jul 16 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 8 | Jun 18 – Jul 16 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 8 | Jul 9 – Aug 20 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 26 | Apr 30 | May 7 | — | Jul 9 – Aug 20 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 5 | Dec 5 – Mar 20 | 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 8 | Jun 11 – Jul 9 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 8 | Jun 18 – Aug 13 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 30 | — | — | Jul 30 – Sep 3 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 8 | Jun 11 – Jul 16 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 8 | May 28 – Jul 2 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 8 | Jul 23 – Oct 8 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 8 | Jul 16 – Aug 27 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 8 | 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 8 | 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 8 | Apr 30 – May 28 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Aug 8 | Jun 11 – Aug 6 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 8 | May 28 – Jun 25 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 8 | May 28 – Jul 30 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 8 | 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 8 | Jul 23 – Sep 10 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 8 | Jun 4 – Jul 2 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Apr 9 | — | Aug 8 | 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 8 | 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 8 | Jun 4 – Jul 9 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 8 | Jun 25 – Jul 30 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Apr 9 | — | Aug 8 | May 7 – May 28 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | May 14 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 8 | Jul 9 – Aug 20 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Apr 9 | — | Aug 8 | Jul 2 – Aug 6 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Apr 9 | — | Aug 8 | Jul 23 – Sep 3 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 8 | Jul 2 – Aug 27 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 8 | 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 8 | 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 8 | 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 8 | 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 8 | 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 8 | May 21 – Jun 25 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 23 | Aug 8 | 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 Steger
27 fruits matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Steger.
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 Steger
35 herbs matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Steger.
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 8 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Aug 8 | 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 8 | Jun 11 – Jul 30 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Aug 8 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 2 – Sep 3 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Aug 8 | Jun 18 – Aug 27 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Aug 8 | May 28 – Jul 30 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 2 – Sep 10 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Aug 8 | May 28 – Jul 30 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 30 | — | Jul 2 – Sep 10 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Aug 8 | Jul 30 – Oct 1 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 19 | Apr 9 | Apr 16 | Aug 8 | 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 8 | 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 8 | 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 8 | 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 Steger
53 flowers matched to Zone 6a with planting dates calibrated for Steger.
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 | — | — | — | Sep 5 | Oct 3 – Oct 31 | 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 | Sep 5 | 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 | — | — | — | Sep 5 | Jul 25 – Aug 15 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Sep 5 | Aug 1 – Aug 22 | 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 | — | — | — | Sep 5 | Aug 22 – Sep 12 | 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 22 | 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 | — | — | — | Sep 5 | Aug 15 – Sep 12 | 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 Steger
ZIP Codes in Steger
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 Cook County.
Your Cook County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Cook 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