Gardening in Chicago: What to Expect in 2025

Attention gardeners: The Old Farmers Almanac has predicted the last frost dates across the U.S. for 2025 — and some in the Chicago area might be surprised.

While there’s an age-old saying to never plant before Mother’s Day in the Chicago area, it appears the recent predictions might say otherwise.

Understanding the Predictions

According to a map of the average last spring freeze, much of the Chicago-area predictions show dates of late-April. The predictions, calculated using 1991-2020 Climate Normals from NOAA, are a 30% probability, however.

“The probability of a frost (32° or lower) occurring after the spring frost date or before the fall frost date is 30%, which means that there is still a chance of frost occurring before or after the given dates,” the almanac states.

So the Mother’s Day advice might not be too far off, considering Mother’s Day falls on May 11 this year.

Why Frost Predictions Matter

The frost predictions are particularly important for gardeners as certain plants cannot survive the cold temperatures.

“A light frost—32°F and colder—kills all tender plants, such as tomatoes. Hardier plants such as spinach and kale will survive until a hard freeze at 28°F and colder,” the almanac reported.

The Silver Lining: Frost Can Be Beneficial

In fact, some plants even taste better with a frost.

“For instance, broccoli’s flavor improves if the plant has experienced a frost, and carrots get sweeter as the temperature drops. Root crops develop more sugars when the soil temperature is below 40°F; Brussels sprouts are often best after a light freeze,” the almanac noted.

There are several ways to protect plants from a frost if you do plant too early, but how you do it will depend on what you planted and where you live.

Chicago’s Unpredictable Weather

April has so far been rather cold in Chicago, though that is not unusual for the region.

A big factor is the disruptions in the polar vortex, even as the “polar vortex season” is winding down, according to NBC 5 Meteorologist Kevin Jeanes.

When the polar vortex begins to wobble and allows arctic air to spill south into northern Illinois in April, it can lead to chillier temperatures in the 30s and 40s.

The city still averages 1.2 inches of snow in April. In April 2017, the region saw up to 8 inches. Record low and high temperatures range from 7 degrees to 91 degrees.

A Look Ahead: Temperature Trends

And cold spells could continue even going into May.

But, in line with the frost predictions for the much of the area, Jeanes reported there are signs of a milder and steadier temperature trend after April 20.

Some models predict highs in the upper 60s around Chicago, while others suggest the possibility of the low 80s.

Conclusion

In conclusion, gardeners in the Chicago area should be aware of the predicted last frost dates for 2025. While the dates may vary, it’s essential to understand the probability of frost and how it can affect different plants. By taking necessary precautions and being mindful of the weather trends, gardeners can ensure a successful and thriving garden.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the predicted last frost date for the Chicago area in 2025?

A: According to the Old Farmers Almanac, the predicted last frost date for the Chicago area is late-April, with a 30% probability.

Q: Why is it important to know the last frost date?

A: Knowing the last frost date is crucial for gardeners as it helps determine when to plant certain crops and how to protect them from frost damage.

Q: Can frost be beneficial for plants?

A: Yes, some plants can benefit from frost, such as broccoli and carrots, which can develop a sweeter flavor and more sugars when exposed to cold temperatures.

Q: How can I protect my plants from frost?

A: There are several ways to protect plants from frost, including covering them, bringing them indoors, or using frost blankets. The method of protection will depend on the type of plant and the location.

Q: What is the polar vortex, and how does it affect Chicago’s weather?

A: The polar vortex is a phenomenon that occurs when the polar jet stream is disrupted, allowing arctic air to spill south into northern Illinois. This can lead to chillier temperatures and unpredictable weather patterns in Chicago.