Frost Dates for Rock Falls, IL 61071

Last spring frost April 26 · First fall frost October 7 · 164 frost-free days · USDA Zone 5b

Frost probability for 61071

Frost10%50%90%
Spring (last frost)May 12April 26April 11
Fall (first frost)September 24October 7October 21

Dates come from NOAA 1971–2000 freeze probabilities at the nearest reporting station (20.1 km away); the 50% date is the median year.

Month by month in Rock Falls

MonthWhat to do
JanuaryPlan your garden layout and order seeds. Research varieties suited to your frost dates.
FebruaryStart peppers and eggplant indoors 8–10 weeks before your last frost (around April 26). Start tomatoes about two weeks later, 6–8 weeks before last frost.
MarchStart herbs, basil, and squash indoors (4–6 weeks before frost). Direct sow peas, spinach, and lettuce if soil is workable.
AprilLast frost around April 26. Transplant cold-hardy crops (broccoli, kale, cabbage). Harden off tomato and pepper seedlings.
MayFrost has passed. Transplant tomatoes, peppers, and basil outdoors. Direct sow beans, cucumbers, squash, and zucchini.
JuneSuccession plant lettuce and greens. Keep beds weeded and watered consistently.
JulyHarvest regularly to encourage production. Monitor for pests and disease.
AugustMidsummer: harvest beans, zucchini, cucumbers. Start brassica seeds indoors for fall.
SeptemberFirst fall frost approaching (around October 7). Transplant fall brassicas. Sow spinach, arugula, and radishes.
OctoberFirst frost around October 7. Harvest tomatoes and peppers before frost. Cover cold-hardy crops with row covers to extend the season.
NovemberHarvest remaining cold-hardy crops: kale, carrots, and beets. Plant garlic bulbs for next year.
DecemberClean up spent plants. Add compost to beds. Rest, review, and plan next year's garden.

What grows in a 164-day season

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the last frost date for Rock Falls, IL (ZIP 61071)?

The median last spring frost date for Rock Falls, IL (ZIP code 61071) is around April 26. This is the 50th-percentile date — meaning half of all years see frost end before this date. Use the 10% and 90% dates to understand the full range of risk in your area.

What is the first fall frost date in Rock Falls, IL?

The median first fall frost date for Rock Falls, IL is around October 7. Plan to harvest or protect frost-sensitive crops like tomatoes and peppers at least a week before this date to avoid losses.

How long is the growing season in Rock Falls, IL?

The frost-free growing season in Rock Falls is about 164 days. This window — from your last spring frost to your first fall frost — is when warm-season vegetables thrive. Cold-hardy crops like kale, spinach, and peas can extend your season by weeks on either side.

What USDA hardiness zone is Rock Falls, IL?

Based on frost date patterns, Rock Falls falls approximately in 5b. USDA hardiness zones are determined by average annual minimum winter temperatures and guide both plant selection and planting timing for your location.

When should I start tomatoes indoors in Rock Falls, IL?

Start tomato seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before your last frost date (around April 26). For Rock Falls, that's roughly March 1 to March 15. Transplant outdoors 1–2 weeks after your last frost.

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