What Can Grow in Illinois (IL)

Illinois lies in the heart of the Midwest with rich prairie soils and a productive growing season for vegetables and grains.

Illinois spans USDA zones 5a to 6b. The primary zone is 5b, with a growing season of 150 days. Top crops include tomatoes, peppers, corn, beans.

5bPrimary Zone
150 daysAvg Growing Season
4Zones Present
6Cities Covered
🗺️ Hardiness Zones in Illinois
5a5b6a6b
🥕 Top Vegetables
tomatoespepperscornbeanssquash
🍎 Top Fruits
applespeachesstrawberriesblueberriesgrapes
🌸 Top Flowers
coneflowersblack-eyed Susansprairie blazing starmarigolds
🌳 Top Trees
bur oakshagbark hickorysilver mapleAmerican elm
🌤️ Climate Summary

Humid continental with hot summers and cold winters. Adequate rainfall with occasional drought years.

🌱
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🏙️ Cities in Illinois
Chicago
Zone 5b
Aurora
Zone 5b
Rockford
Zone 5a
Springfield
Zone 5b
Joliet
Zone 5b
Peoria
Zone 5b

Frequently Asked Questions

Illinois spans USDA hardiness zones 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b. The most common zone across the state is 5b. Humid continental with hot summers and cold winters. Adequate rainfall with occasional drought years.

In Illinois, excellent vegetables to grow include tomatoes, peppers, corn, beans, squash. The growing season of 150 days allows for a productive single season.

Illinois is well suited for growing apples, peaches, strawberries, blueberries, grapes. Always choose varieties rated for your specific local zone.

Illinois's growing season averages 150 days. Humid continental with hot summers and cold winters. Adequate rainfall with occasional drought years. Check your specific city or zone page for precise last-frost and first-frost dates.