When to plant Chives in Washington County, IL
Washington County sits in cold Zone 6b. Plant Chives April 16–April 30 for the single annual harvest; the October 20 first frost closes the window.
When to Plant Chives in Washington County, IL
Chives are a hardy perennial herb with a mild onion flavor and attractive purple pom-pom flowers. They are one of the easiest herbs to grow and maintain.
Washington County, 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 1,126 feet, Washington County receives approximately 33.7 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 87°F, providing good warmth for Chives during the growing season.
Washington County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Chives Planting Timeline — Washington County, IL
Chives Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | April 16 | Apr 16 – Apr 30 |
| Harvest | June 18 | Jun 18 – Aug 27 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | Transplant Outdoors |
| May | — |
| June | Harvest |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
Moderate — regular watering
📅 Days to Maturity
60–90 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 6b
📆 Growing Season
194 days in Washington County
Growing Tips for Washington County
Start from seed or divisions in spring. Cut back to 2 inches after flowering to encourage fresh growth. Both the leaves and flowers are edible and delicious.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Chives in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Chives in Washington County, IL?
Washington County is in Zone 6b with an average last frost of April 9. Plan your Chives planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Washington County, IL?
Washington County, Illinois is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 9 and first fall frost is October 20.
When should I plant Chives in Washington County, IL?
In Washington County, IL, plant Chives 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 Washington County, IL for Chives?
Washington County sits in USDA Zone 6b. Chives grows reliably in zones 3a through 10b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Chives grow in Washington County's climate?
Yes — Chives grows well in Washington County's temperate climate. Washington County averages a 194-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 9 and first frost around October 20.
Your Washington County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Washington 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.