Frost Dates for West Chicago, IL 60185

Last spring frost May 1 · First fall frost October 9 · 161 frost-free days · USDA Zone 5b

Frost probability for 60185

Frost10%50%90%
Spring (last frost)May 21May 1April 13
Fall (first frost)September 26October 9October 20

Dates come from NOAA 1971–2000 freeze probabilities at the nearest reporting station (25.1 km away); the 50% date is the median year.

Month by month in West Chicago

MonthWhat to do
JanuaryPlan your garden layout and order seeds. Research varieties suited to your frost dates.
FebruaryStart the slowest-growing crops indoors: onions, leeks, and celery (10–12 weeks before last frost).
MarchStart peppers and eggplant indoors 8–10 weeks before your last frost (around May 1). Start tomatoes about two weeks later, 6–8 weeks before last frost.
AprilStart herbs, basil, and squash indoors (4–6 weeks before frost). Direct sow peas, spinach, and lettuce if soil is workable.
MayLast frost around May 1. Transplant cold-hardy crops (broccoli, kale, cabbage). Harden off tomato and pepper seedlings.
JuneFrost has passed. Transplant tomatoes, peppers, and basil outdoors. Direct sow beans, cucumbers, squash, and zucchini.
JulySuccession plant lettuce and greens. Keep beds weeded and watered consistently.
AugustHarvest regularly to encourage production. Monitor for pests and disease.
SeptemberFirst fall frost approaching (around October 9). Transplant fall brassicas. Sow spinach, arugula, and radishes.
OctoberFirst frost around October 9. 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 161-day season

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the last frost date for West Chicago, IL (ZIP 60185)?

The median last spring frost date for West Chicago, IL (ZIP code 60185) is around May 1. 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 West Chicago, IL?

The median first fall frost date for West Chicago, IL is around October 9. 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 West Chicago, IL?

The frost-free growing season in West Chicago is about 161 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 West Chicago, IL?

Based on frost date patterns, West Chicago 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 West Chicago, IL?

Start tomato seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before your last frost date (around May 1). For West Chicago, that's roughly March 6 to March 20. Transplant outdoors 1–2 weeks after your last frost.

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