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Can You Grow Collard Greens in Illinois?

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

Grows well here

Collards are well-suited to your zone — they handle summer heat and frost alike.

Plant zones

5a–11b

Illinois last frost

early April

Illinois first frost

late October

Days to harvest

60–80 days

When to plant Collard Greenses in Illinois

Start indoors

Mar 10

Transplant

Apr 7

Harvest

Jun 6 – Jun 26

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

About Collard Greens

Collard greens are a Southern staple — extremely hardy, tolerating both frost and summer heat better than most brassicas. Rich in nutrients and one of the most productive greens per square foot.

Start indoors 4-6 weeks before last frost or direct sow. Harvest lower leaves as needed. Plants withstand hard frosts — flavor improves after cold snaps. In warm zones, grow as a fall/winter crop.

Full collard greens 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.