In Illinois , the USDA has fraction the province into dissimilar hardiness zone based on the average minimum winter temperatures . These zones aid nurseryman and landscape gardener determine which plant are most potential to thrive in their specific region . In Illinois , the hardiness zones drift from 5 to 7 , progressing horizontally across the commonwealth .

The northern parts of Illinois , including urban center like Chicago , fall within geographical zone 5 . This means that the modal minimal winter temperature in these areas can reach as low as -20 to -10 degrees Fahrenheit ( -29 to -23 degrees Celsius ) . It ’s all important to choose plant that can stand these colder temperature and potentially harsh wintertime conditions .

incite towards central Illinois , you ’ll find yourself in zone 6 . This zone covers cities like Springfield and Champaign . The modal minimum winter temperature in this region roll from -10 to 0 arcdegree Fahrenheit ( -23 to -18 degrees Celsius ) . While it is slightly milder than zona 5 , it ’s still important to pick out industrial plant that can withstand freezing temperatures and occasional wintertime storms .

As you venture further in the south in Illinois , you enter zona 7 . This geographical zone include cities such as Carbondale and Cairo . The average minimal winter temperature in zone 7 ranges from 0 to 10 degrees Fahrenheit ( -18 to -12 degree Celsius ) . While wintertime in this region are generally milder than in the northern parts of the state , it ’s still wise to to take plants that can handle casual frost and colder temperatures .

It ’s worth noting that these hardiness zones render a world-wide guidepost , but microclimates can live within sure areas . Factors such as summit , proximity to bodies of water , and urban heat island force can act upon local temperature . Therefore , it ’s always a good idea to observe your specific location and adjust plant excerpt consequently .

interpret the last and first frost dates is also crucial for successful horticulture in Illinois . The last Robert Frost go out in the land can vary , typically occurring anywhere between late April to mid - May . The first frost date commonly start in October , but they can take place as early as late September in some area . Being aware of these engagement helps determine when it ’s safe to plant attender annual and vegetables in your garden .

In my personal experience as a gardener in Illinois , I have found that it ’s essential to pay attending to the specific microclimate status in my area . For example , I live in zone 6 near a bombastic body of water , which tends to moderate temperatures and check the first Robert Lee Frost compare to nearby areas . This allows me to extend my turn season somewhat and experiment with some plants that are typically not urge for my zone .

To summarize , Illinois is separate into USDA hardiness zones 5 , 6 , and 7 . Zone 5 get across the northerly parts , zone 6 the central realm , and zone 7 the southern area . translate your specific hardiness zone and the comparable last and first hoarfrost dates is all-important for choose the right plants and maximizing gardening winner in Illinois .

Caroline Bates