What to plant this week in Springfield, IL
With the average last frost date falling on April 21, gardeners in Springfield are right at the tipping point between ending cold-weather crops and preparing for the official start of spring. While you can't yet sow warm-season seeds or transplant tender perennials, this is your final week to harvest late Daikon radishes before the soil cools further.
The next 7 days
Springfield, ILGrowing in Springfield right now
- Protect young garlic plants from early April freeze-thaw cycles by applying a light layer of straw mulch to insulate bulbs against sudden drops near -10°F.
- Springfield's heavy clay soils will stay frozen longer than surrounding areas; wait for the top 6 inches to thaw completely before attempting any digging or transplanting work next week.
- Monitor local drainage during the transition from winter snowmelt, as saturated clay can delay root establishment if you rush to plant early varieties.
- Focus weekly efforts on finishing your Daikon radish harvest now that they are flagged for immediate yield in this specific region.
Sow this week
No direct sowing windows open this week.
Transplant this week
Nothing is due to go out this week.
Harvest soon
2 crops- Daikon Radish
- Garlic
Seasonal tips
- Apply fresh mulch now to retain soil moisture as temperatures rise.
- Test soil pH before adding any compost or amendments for new transplants.
- Keep a close eye on emerging seedlings to protect them from late spring fluctuations.
Pest & disease watch
- Watch for late-season flea beetle activity on any remaining brassicas in the field corners before soil temperatures fully stabilize.
- Check transplanted garlic bulbs for signs of winter injury or rot caused by prolonged wet spells common during April thaw events.
- Inspect greenhouse structures for emerging spider mites as indoor heat rises ahead of outdoor warming trends.
Watering this week
Water deeply but less frequently now that the soil is warming up, encouraging strong root development.
Harvest Daikon Radish promptly before the heat sets in to ensure the best crunch and flavor.
Springfield gardening questions
3Can I plant tomatoes now in Springfield?
No, wait until after the average last frost date of April 21 to avoid killing your starts with a late freeze. Transplanting too early on our local clay soil often leads to stunted growth and poor fruit set later in the season.
When should I start sowing beans for this year's crop?
Hold off on direct sowing bean seeds until mid-to-late May when soil temperatures consistently reach 60°F. Sprouting them indoors now risks rotting if the spring rains are heavy, which is typical for our climate right after frost season.
My garlic looks brown and soft; is it harvest time?
Since Daikon radishes are listed for immediate harvest this week, your garlic may be nearing maturity or suffering from late winter stress. Check the necks of the bulbs gently—if they feel dry and papery, you can pull them now to store for winter use.
Other cities in zone 6a
12See the full zone 6a guide → · Plan your Springfield garden in SproutGuide →