Image from USDA
Characteristics of Illinois's Planting Region
Illinois has a continental climate characterized by distinct seasonal changes, with significant temperature variations between summer and winter. The state's north-south orientation creates notable differences in growing conditions between regions.
As an Illinois gardener, you can expect:
- Hot summers with July temperatures averaging 75°F to 85°F (23.9°C to 29.4°C)
- Cold winters, especially in the north, with January averages ranging from 14°F to 32°F (-10°C to 0°C)
- Annual rainfall averaging 35-45 inches, increasing from north to south
- Lake effect influence in northeastern regions
- Approximately 150-190 frost-free days, depending on location
The Illinois growing season varies significantly by region:
- Northern Illinois: Late April to early October
- Central Illinois: Mid-April to mid-October
- Southern Illinois: Early April to late October
Challenges of Growing in Illinois
Extreme Temperature Fluctuations
Spring weather can be particularly unpredictable, with sudden temperature swings that can damage early plantings. Late frost in spring and early frost in fall can shorten the growing season.
Wind Exposure
The prairie landscape offers little natural wind protection, which can damage plants and increase water evaporation rates. Chicago's famous winds can be particularly challenging for gardeners.
Soil Variations
While much of Illinois boasts rich prairie soils, urban areas often have poor, compacted soil, and northern regions may have heavy clay. Southern Illinois can have more acidic soils requiring amendment.
The Benefits of Using a Greenhouse in Illinois
For Illinois gardeners, a greenhouse isn't just a luxury—it's a game-changing tool that transforms a limited growing season into year-round gardening opportunities.
Here's how protected growing space can revolutionize your Illinois garden:
1. Extend Your Growing Season
- Without a Greenhouse: In central Illinois, the typical outdoor growing season runs from early May to late September. This shorter season limits the variety and volume of crops you can enjoy fresh.
- With a Greenhouse: Start planting as early as March and continue harvesting into November. With the extended season, you could be enjoying fresh tomatoes for your Thanksgiving dinner!
Learn more about your area's specific growing dates and the best vegetables to plant in each part of Illinois.
Customer images of their Greenhouse setup in Illinois
2. Grow a Wider Variety of Vegetables Without a Greenhouse:
- Without a Greenhouse:
Illinois outdoor gardens thrive with:
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- With a Greenhouse:
A controlled environment allows for a broader selection of plants, especially those that need warmer temperatures or a longer growing season, including:
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Why Planta Greenhouses?
- Wind resistant up to 65 mph (learn more about how our greenhouses hold up in high-altitude climates).
- Withstands a snow load of up to 98 psf (480kg/square meter).
- Made with a heavy-duty galvanized steel frame.
- Polycarbonate panels provide 100% protection against UV rays.
- The Sungrow greenhouse is bell-shaped - allows the wind, snow, and hail to slide off the sides.
- Extendable (Sungrow, Sigma and Farmer models can be extended beyond 100ft)
- Made in Europe and are exclusively imported
- Maintenance-free