When to Plant Radicchio in Blaine County, NE
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.
Blaine County, Nebraska is in USDA Zone 4b. The average last spring frost is May 13 and the first fall frost is October 2, giving you a growing season of approximately 142 days.
At an elevation of 694 feet, Blaine County receives approximately 29.5 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly loam soil. Summer highs average 84°F, so choose short-season varieties of Radicchio to ensure they mature before fall.
Blaine County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.7-7.7
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
Water stress score is 8/10 — consider drought-tolerant varieties and mulching
Radicchio Planting Timeline — Blaine County, NE
Radicchio Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | April 1 | Apr 1 – Apr 15 |
| Transplant Outdoors | May 13 | May 13 – May 27 |
| Direct Sow | May 6 | May 6 – May 27 |
| Fall Sowing | July 10 | Jul 10 – Jul 24 |
| Harvest | July 15 | Jul 15 – Aug 19 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 6" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | Start Indoors |
| May | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| June | — |
| July | Fall Sowing Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| 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 4b
Growing Season
142 days
Growing Tips for Blaine 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 Blaine County, NE?
Blaine County is in Zone 4b with an average last frost of May 13. Plan your Radicchio planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Blaine County, NE?
Blaine County, Nebraska is in USDA Hardiness Zone 4b. The average last spring frost is May 13 and first fall frost is October 2.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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