When to Plant Radicchio in DeKalb County, MO
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.
DeKalb County, Missouri is in USDA Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is April 14 and the first fall frost is October 18, giving you a growing season of approximately 187 days.
At an elevation of 917 feet, DeKalb County receives approximately 39 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 87°F, providing good warmth for Radicchio during the growing season.
DeKalb County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.5-7.1
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 — DeKalb County, MO
Radicchio Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 10 | Mar 10 – Mar 24 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 14 | Apr 14 – Apr 28 |
| Direct Sow | March 31 | Mar 31 – Apr 21 |
| Fall Sowing | August 9 | Aug 9 – Aug 23 |
| Harvest | June 16 | Jun 16 – Jul 21 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 6" apart · Rows 12" 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
60–80 days
Soil pH
6 – 7
USDA Zone
Zone 5b
Growing Season
187 days
Growing Tips for DeKalb 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 DeKalb County, MO?
DeKalb County is in Zone 5b with an average last frost of April 14. Plan your Radicchio planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is DeKalb County, MO?
DeKalb County, Missouri is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is April 14 and first fall frost is October 18.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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