Month planting calendar

What to plant in May in Chicago (60601)

In Chicago, ZIP 60601, zone 6a, here is what you can start indoors, transplant, or direct-sow in May, and what to wait on until later.

Source: chicago-ohare frost station, USDA zone 6a, last updated 2026-06-28. Verify locally before planting high-value crops because microclimates, current weather, and yard exposure can move the safe date.