When to Plant Chicory in Boyle County, KY
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.
Boyle County, Kentucky is in USDA Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 13 and the first fall frost is October 26, giving you a growing season of approximately 196 days.
At an elevation of 2,831 feet, Boyle County receives approximately 50.7 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 85°F, providing good warmth for Chicory during the growing season. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Chicory root diseases.
Boyle County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.4-6.7
Drainage
Well Drained
Plant Planting Risk Windows
Percentages indicate frost risk at transplant. The 70% safe window means there is a 30% chance of frost after transplant — suitable for cold-hardy crops or gardeners with frost protection. The 90% safe window is best for tender plants.
Plant Water Budget
Chicory Planting Timeline — Boyle County, KY
Chicory Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 9 | Mar 9 – Mar 23 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 13 | Apr 13 – Apr 27 |
| Direct Sow | March 30 | Mar 30 – Apr 20 |
| Fall Sowing | August 17 | Aug 17 – Aug 31 |
| Harvest | June 15 | Jun 15 – Jul 27 |
Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Start Indoors Direct Sow |
| April | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| May | — |
| June | Harvest |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Fall Sowing |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
Water
Moderate — regular watering
Days to Maturity
60–85 days
Soil pH
5.5 – 7
USDA Zone
Zone 6b
Growing Season
196 days
Growing Tips for Boyle County
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
Level Up Your Garden
Chicory in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Chicory in Boyle County, KY?
Boyle County is in Zone 6b with an average last frost of April 13. Plan your Chicory planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Boyle County, KY?
Boyle County, Kentucky is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 13 and first fall frost is October 26.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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