When to Plant Radicchio in Fulton County, IL
Radicchio is an Italian chicory with stunning red and white leaves and a pleasantly bitter flavor. It forms tight heads and is used in salads, grilled, or braised.
Fulton County, Illinois is in USDA Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is April 20 and the first fall frost is October 16, giving you a growing season of approximately 179 days.
At an elevation of 1,162 feet, Fulton County receives approximately 39.5 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 83°F, so choose short-season varieties of Radicchio to ensure they mature before fall.
Fulton County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.1-6.7
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
Radicchio Planting Timeline — Fulton County, IL
Radicchio Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 16 | Mar 16 – Mar 30 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 20 | Apr 20 – May 4 |
| Direct Sow | April 6 | Apr 6 – Apr 27 |
| Fall Sowing | August 7 | Aug 7 – Aug 21 |
| Harvest | June 22 | Jun 22 – Jul 27 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 6" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Start Indoors |
| April | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| May | Transplant Outdoors |
| 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
60–80 days
Soil pH
6 – 7
USDA Zone
Zone 5b
Growing Season
179 days
Growing Tips for Fulton County
Start in late summer for fall harvest. The red color develops with cool nights and light frost. Harvest when heads are firm and compact.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Level Up Your Garden
Radicchio in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Radicchio in Fulton County, IL?
Fulton County is in Zone 5b with an average last frost of April 20. Plan your Radicchio planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Fulton County, IL?
Fulton County, Illinois is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is April 20 and first fall frost is October 16.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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