Question 1

When should I plant watermelon in ZIP 60601?

Accepted Answer

In ZIP 60601, the main watermelon target is around May 9, based on the representative Chicago frost station and USDA zone 6a.

Question 2

When should I start watermelon seeds indoors in 60601?

Accepted Answer

Start watermelon seeds indoors in ZIP 60601 around Apr 4, about 21 days before the Apr 25 last-frost estimate.

Question 3

When is the last frost in Chicago?

Accepted Answer

Chicago (ZIP 60601) has an average last spring frost around Apr 25, based on the representative Chicago frost station.

Question 4

When is the first frost in Chicago?

Accepted Answer

Chicago (ZIP 60601) has an average first fall frost around Oct 20, leaving about 178 frost-free days.

Question 5

Is this a guaranteed planting date?

Accepted Answer

No. GrowZone uses frost-date estimates, hardiness zones, and crop timing rules for planning. Local microclimates and current weather can shift the right date.

Step	Date	How to use it
Start Indoors	April 4, 2026	Start seeds under lights or in a bright indoor seed-starting space.
Transplant Outdoors	May 9, 2026	Move hardened-off seedlings outside after the frost-risk window.
Direct Sow	May 9, 2026	Sow seed outside when the crop and soil can handle the window.

Start watermelon seeds indoors around Apr 4

Watermelon dates for Chicago, IL