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Can You Grow Cauliflower in Illinois?

US · USDA Zone 5b · zones 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a

Grows well here

Cauliflower grows well here if you time it for your cool season — fall crops are often more reliable than spring.

Plant zones

2a–11b

Illinois last frost

early April

Illinois first frost

late October

Days to harvest

60–100 days

When to plant Cauliflowers in Illinois

Start indoors

Feb 23

Transplant

Apr 7

Harvest

Jun 6 – Jul 16

Dates are approximate, based on Illinois's average frost dates. Your exact yard may vary by microclimate.

About Cauliflower

Cauliflower is one of the most rewarding cool-season brassicas — and one of the trickiest. It forms a dense white head that needs steady cool weather and consistent moisture.

Start indoors 6 weeks before last frost; transplant 2-3 weeks before last frost. Blanch heads by tying leaves over them once they're 2-3 inches across. Harvest before curds loosen.

Full cauliflower growing guide →

Gardening in Illinois

Illinois has a humid continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. Chicago is Zone 5b-6a; southern Illinois is warmer at Zone 6-7. Classic Midwest growing region.