When to plant Chicory in Alva, FL
In Zone 10b (Alva), direct-sow Chicory between January 7 and January 28 for spring, after the January 28 last-frost mark. A second sowing from October 24 to November 7 extends the harvest into fall.
When to Plant Chicory in Alva, FL
Chicory is a hardy perennial grown for its bitter leaves and roots. The roots can be roasted as a coffee substitute, and the leaves add complexity to salads.
Alva, Florida is in USDA Zone 10b. The average last spring frost is January 28 and the first fall frost is December 19, giving you a growing season of approximately 325 days.
At an elevation of 408 feet, Lee County receives approximately 61.6 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly sand soil. Summer highs average 86°F, providing good warmth for Chicory during the growing season. Sandy soil warms quickly in spring — great for early planting — but Chicory will need more frequent watering and organic matter to retain nutrients. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Chicory root diseases.
Alva Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sand
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Chicory Planting Timeline — Alva, FL
Chicory Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | December 31 | Dec 31 – Jan 14 |
| Transplant Outdoors | January 28 | Jan 28 – Feb 11 |
| Direct Sow | January 7 | Jan 7 – Jan 28 |
| Harvest | April 1 | Apr 1 – May 13 |
| Fall Sowing | October 24 | Oct 24 – Nov 7 |
Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | Start Indoors Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| February | Transplant Outdoors |
| March | — |
| April | Harvest |
| May | Harvest |
| June | — |
| July | — |
| August | — |
| September | — |
| October | Fall Sowing |
| November | Fall Sowing |
| December | Start Indoors |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
Moderate — regular watering
📅 Days to Maturity
60–85 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 5.5–7 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 10b
📆 Growing Season
325 days in Lee County
Growing Tips for Alva
Sow seeds directly in spring. Thin plants to 8-12 inches apart. For forcing, dig roots in fall and replant in a dark, cool area to produce blanched chicons.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
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Chicory in Other Locations
When should I plant Chicory in Alva, FL?
In Alva, FL, plant Chicory after the last frost (around January 28) and before the first frost (around December 19). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Alva, FL for Chicory?
Alva sits in USDA Zone 10b. Chicory grows reliably in zones 3a through 10b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Chicory grow in Alva's climate?
Yes — Chicory grows well in Alva's temperate climate. Alva averages a 326-day frost-free season, with last frost around January 28 and first frost around December 19.
Your Lee County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Lee County (Zone 10b). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.