What Can Grow in Aurora, IL

Aurora west of Chicago shares the city's productive climate with more continental conditions away from the lake.

Aurora, IL is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5b. The growing season lasts about 148 days, with last frost around April 25 and first fall frost around October 18. Top crops include tomatoes, peppers, corn.

5bUSDA Zone
148 daysFrost-Free
April 25Last Frost
October 18First Frost
🌱 What Grows in Aurora
tomatoespepperscornbeanssquashpumpkins
💡 Planting Tips

Slightly more continental than Chicago. Good conditions for corn. Plant warm crops after May 10.

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📍 Full Zone 5b Guide 🌎 Illinois Planting Guide

Frequently Asked Questions

Aurora, IL is in USDA Plant Hardiness Zone 5b. Aurora west of Chicago shares the city's productive climate with more continental conditions away from the lake.

The average last spring frost in Aurora is around April 25. The first fall frost typically arrives around October 18, giving a frost-free growing season of approximately 148 days.

Aurora's Zone 5b climate supports growing tomatoes, peppers, corn, beans, squash, pumpkins. Slightly more continental than Chicago. Good conditions for corn. Plant warm crops after May 10.

In Aurora, start with cool-season crops like lettuce, spinach, and broccoli a few weeks before the last frost date of April 25. Warm-season crops like tomatoes and peppers should go in after all frost risk has passed.