When to Plant Radicchio in Armstrong County, PA
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.
Armstrong County, Pennsylvania is in USDA Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is April 29 and the first fall frost is October 18, giving you a growing season of approximately 172 days.
At an elevation of 213 feet, Armstrong County receives approximately 49.9 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 86°F, providing good warmth for Radicchio during the growing season.
Armstrong County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5-6.3
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 — Armstrong County, PA
Radicchio Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 25 | Mar 25 – Apr 8 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 29 | Apr 29 – May 13 |
| Direct Sow | April 15 | Apr 15 – May 6 |
| Fall Sowing | August 9 | Aug 9 – Aug 23 |
| Harvest | July 1 | Jul 1 – Aug 5 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 6" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Start Indoors |
| April | Start Indoors Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| May | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| June | — |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Fall Sowing 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 5b
Growing Season
172 days
Growing Tips for Armstrong 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 Armstrong County, PA?
Armstrong County is in Zone 5b with an average last frost of April 29. Plan your Radicchio planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Armstrong County, PA?
Armstrong County, Pennsylvania is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is April 29 and first fall frost is October 18.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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