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Can You Grow Cherry in Illinois?

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

Grows well here

Cherries grow well here with enough winter chill and full sun — tart varieties are hardier and easier.

Plant zones

4a–9a

Illinois last frost

early April

Illinois first frost

late October

Days to harvest

3–7 years

About Cherry

Cherry trees — sweet or tart — are a classic home orchard choice, but they need cross-pollination and are magnets for birds, so be ready to net the crop.

Plant two compatible varieties for pollination (unless tart/self-fertile). Site in full sun with good air flow. Net ripening fruit against birds. Trees bear in 3-6 years.

Full cherry 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.