When to plant Beets in Vermilion County, IL
Beets planted in Vermilion County between March 31 and April 21 matures in 50–70 days — well before the October 16 first frost. A second sowing from August 7 to August 21 extends the harvest into fall.
When to Plant Beets in Vermilion County, IL
Beets are a dual-purpose root vegetable with edible roots and nutritious greens. They come in red, golden, and striped varieties and are rich in vitamins and minerals.
Vermilion County, Illinois is in USDA Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is April 14 and the first fall frost is October 16, giving you a growing season of approximately 185 days.
At an elevation of 1,218 feet, Vermilion County receives approximately 31.2 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 85°F, providing good warmth for Beets during the growing season.
Vermilion County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.2-6.9
Drainage
Well Drained
Monthly Watering Guide for Beets
Beets needs approximately 1 inches of water per week (4.3" per month). Here's how your county's rainfall compares month by month.
| Month | Beets Needs | Rainfall | You Supplement | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | — | 1.4" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 1.4" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | — | 1.8" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Apr | 4.3" | 3.1" | 1.2" | 💧 Light watering |
| May | 4.3" | 3.9" | 0.4" | 💧 Light watering |
| Jun | 4.3" | 3.7" | 0.6" | 💧 Light watering |
| Jul | 4.3" | 3.8" | 0.5" | 💧 Light watering |
| Aug | 4.3" | 3.5" | 0.8" | 💧 Light watering |
| Sep | 4.3" | 2.5" | 1.8" | 💧 Light watering |
| Oct | 4.3" | 2.1" | 2.2" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Nov | — | 2.2" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Dec | — | 1.7" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Apr–Oct in Vermilion County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Beets Planting Timeline — Vermilion County, IL
Beets Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Sow | March 31 | Mar 31 – Apr 21 |
| Harvest | May 26 | May 26 – Jun 23 |
| Fall Sowing | August 7 | Aug 7 – Aug 21 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 4" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Direct Sow |
| April | Direct Sow |
| May | Harvest |
| June | Harvest |
| July | — |
| August | Fall Sowing |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
Moderate — regular watering
📅 Days to Maturity
50–70 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7.5 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 6a
📆 Growing Season
185 days in Vermilion County
Growing Tips for Vermilion County
Soak seeds overnight before planting to improve germination. Thin seedlings to 3-4 inches apart. Harvest roots when 1.5-3 inches in diameter for best texture.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Isolate 1/2 mile from Swiss chard — same species, they will cross.
Beets in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Beets in Vermilion County, IL?
Vermilion County is in Zone 6a with an average last frost of April 14. Plan your Beets planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Vermilion County, IL?
Vermilion County, Illinois is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is April 14 and first fall frost is October 16.
When should I plant Beets in Vermilion County, IL?
In Vermilion County, IL, plant Beets after the last frost (around April 14) and before the first frost (around October 16). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Vermilion County, IL for Beets?
Vermilion County sits in USDA Zone 6a. Beets grows reliably in zones 2a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Beets grow in Vermilion County's climate?
Yes — Beets grows well in Vermilion County's temperate climate. Vermilion County averages a 185-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 14 and first frost around October 16.
Your Vermilion County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Vermilion 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.