When to plant Caraway in Sangamon County, IL
Sangamon County gardeners should plant Caraway between April 1 and April 22 in spring. With Sangamon County's Zone 6a climate (last frost April 15), Caraway needs 365–450 days to mature — plant by July 24 for a full harvest. A second sowing from August 8 to August 22 extends the harvest into fall.
When to Plant Caraway in Sangamon County, IL
Caraway is a biennial herb grown for its distinctive crescent-shaped seeds used in rye bread, sauerkraut, and European cuisine. The leaves and roots are also edible.
Sangamon County, Illinois is in USDA Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is April 15 and the first fall frost is October 17, giving you a growing season of approximately 185 days.
At an elevation of 1,204 feet, Sangamon County receives approximately 41.1 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 85°F, providing good warmth for Caraway during the growing season.
Sangamon County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Caraway Planting Timeline — Sangamon County, IL
Caraway Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 11 | Mar 11 – Mar 25 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 8 | Apr 8 – Apr 22 |
| Direct Sow | April 1 | Apr 1 – Apr 22 |
| Fall Sowing | August 8 | Aug 8 – Aug 22 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Start Indoors |
| April | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| May | — |
| June | — |
| July | — |
| August | Fall Sowing |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
Moderate — regular watering
📅 Days to Maturity
365–450 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7.5 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 6a
📆 Growing Season
185 days in Sangamon County
Growing Tips for Sangamon County
Direct sow in spring or fall. Caraway produces seeds in its second year. Harvest seed heads when they turn brown. The young leaves can be used like parsley.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
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Caraway in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Caraway in Sangamon County, IL?
Sangamon County is in Zone 6a with an average last frost of April 15. Plan your Caraway planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Sangamon County, IL?
Sangamon County, Illinois is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is April 15 and first fall frost is October 17.
When should I plant Caraway in Sangamon County, IL?
In Sangamon County, IL, plant Caraway after the last frost (around April 15) and before the first frost (around October 17). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Sangamon County, IL for Caraway?
Sangamon County sits in USDA Zone 6a. Caraway grows reliably in zones 3a through 9b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Caraway grow in Sangamon County's climate?
Yes — Caraway grows well in Sangamon County's temperate climate. Sangamon County averages a 185-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 15 and first frost around October 17.
Your Sangamon County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Sangamon 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.