What Can Grow in Chicago, IL

Chicago's lakeside climate gives it more moderate temperatures than inland Illinois — famous for deep-dish and fresh garden produce.

Chicago, IL is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5b. The growing season lasts about 150 days, with last frost around April 22 and first fall frost around October 20. Top crops include tomatoes, peppers, beans.

5bUSDA Zone
150 daysFrost-Free
April 22Last Frost
October 20First Frost
🌱 What Grows in Chicago
tomatoespeppersbeanscornsquashbroccoli
💡 Planting Tips

Lake moderates temps. Plant warm crops after May 10. Excellent farmers markets. Fall garden September.

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📍 Full Zone 5b Guide 🌎 Illinois Planting Guide

Frequently Asked Questions

Chicago, IL is in USDA Plant Hardiness Zone 5b. Chicago's lakeside climate gives it more moderate temperatures than inland Illinois — famous for deep-dish and fresh garden produce.

The average last spring frost in Chicago is around April 22. The first fall frost typically arrives around October 20, giving a frost-free growing season of approximately 150 days.

Chicago's Zone 5b climate supports growing tomatoes, peppers, beans, corn, squash, broccoli. Lake moderates temps. Plant warm crops after May 10. Excellent farmers markets. Fall garden September.

In Chicago, start with cool-season crops like lettuce, spinach, and broccoli a few weeks before the last frost date of April 22. Warm-season crops like tomatoes and peppers should go in after all frost risk has passed.