When to Plant Strawberries in Washington County, IL
Strawberries are a beloved perennial fruit available as June-bearing, ever-bearing, and day-neutral types. They are one of the easiest fruits to grow in containers or garden beds.
Washington County, Illinois is in USDA Zone 6a. 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 Strawberries during the growing season.
Washington County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.9-7.2
Drainage
Well Drained
Plant Planting Risk Windows
Percentages indicate frost risk at transplant. The 70% safe window means there is a 30% chance of frost after transplant — suitable for cold-hardy crops or gardeners with frost protection. The 90% safe window is best for tender plants.
Plant Water Budget
Strawberries Planting Timeline — Washington County, IL
Strawberries Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | April 30 | Apr 30 – May 14 |
| Harvest | July 30 | Jul 30 – Nov 12 |
· 12" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | Transplant Outdoors |
| May | Transplant Outdoors |
| June | — |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| September | Harvest |
| October | Harvest |
| November | Harvest |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
Water
Moderate — regular watering
Days to Maturity
90–365 days
Soil pH
5.5 – 6.8
USDA Zone
Zone 6a
Growing Season
194 days
Growing Tips for Washington County
Plant with crowns at soil level. Remove runners the first year to strengthen plants. Mulch with straw to keep fruit clean and suppress weeds. Renovate June-bearing beds after harvest.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Level Up Your Garden
Strawberries in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Strawberries in Washington County, IL?
Washington County is in Zone 6a with an average last frost of April 9. Plan your Strawberries 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 6a. The average last spring frost is April 9 and first fall frost is October 20.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Washington County gardeners in Zone 6a organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
Get Your Free Garden Planner →Free download. Plan your entire garden season in minutes.