Seed Library

Grow your own garden with help from the Library! 

Our Seed Library offers a variety of vegetable, herb, and flower seeds — completely free!  

Patrons may take up to 4 seed packets per visit. No library card is required, and you do not need to return the seeds. At this time, we are not accepting donated or harvested seeds. Our seed offering is on a first come, first served basis, and while supplies last. The seed options will rotate each season, so feel free to check back if something is out of stock or if you are interested in a particular option. 

Visit the Adult Reference Desk to browse the current selection and pick up helpful gardening resources. 

Seasonal Planting Tips for Carol Stream, IL
(Zone 5b) 

Carol Stream, IL is located in USDA Hardiness Zone 5b, which means the area experiences cold winters and an average last frost date in late April to early May, with the first frost typically in mid-October. 

Early Spring (March–April): 

Start seeds indoors or plant cool-weather crops outdoors once the soil is workable. 
Try: 

• Lettuce 

• Spinach 

• Peas 

• Radishes 

• Kale 

• Broccoli 

• Cabbage 

Late Spring to Early Summer (May–June): 

After the last frost (usually late April to early May), transplant seedlings and sow warm-season crops. 
Try: 

• Tomatoes 

• Peppers 

• Cucumbers 

• Squash 

• Basil 

• Beans 

• Marigolds 

• Zinnias 

Mid to Late Summer (July–August): 

Start fall crops and fast-growing veggies. 
Try: 

• Green beans 

• Carrots 

• Beets 

• Turnips 

• Swiss chard 

• Cilantro 

Fall (September–October): 

Plant hardy greens and cover crops early in the month before frost returns. 
Try: 

• Arugula 

• Radishes 

• Spinach 

• Garlic (for harvest next summer) 

Winter (November–February): 

Take a break from outdoor planting and focus on: 

• Indoor herb gardening (basil, mint, chives) 

• Planning and preparing for spring 

• Starting seeds indoors under grow lights (February for tomatoes and peppers) 

Gardening Resources 

We also offer books, planting guides, and staff recommendations to help you get started. Just ask a librarian or visit our gardening section, as well as check our calendar of events for our monthly gardening program in partnership with DuPage Garden Club. 

Happy planting — and thank you for growing with us! 

Seeds donated by Barn Owl of Carol Stream.