When to Plant Radicchio in Northumberland 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.
Northumberland County, Pennsylvania is in USDA Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is April 17 and the first fall frost is October 26, giving you a growing season of approximately 192 days.
At an elevation of 324 feet, Northumberland County receives approximately 40.9 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 91°F, providing good warmth for Radicchio during the growing season.
Northumberland County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.1-6.6
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 — Northumberland County, PA
Radicchio Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 13 | Mar 13 – Mar 27 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 17 | Apr 17 – May 1 |
| Direct Sow | April 3 | Apr 3 – Apr 24 |
| Fall Sowing | August 17 | Aug 17 – Aug 31 |
| Harvest | June 19 | Jun 19 – Jul 24 |
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 6a
Growing Season
192 days
Growing Tips for Northumberland 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 Northumberland County, PA?
Northumberland County is in Zone 6a with an average last frost of April 17. Plan your Radicchio planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Northumberland County, PA?
Northumberland County, Pennsylvania is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is April 17 and first fall frost is October 26.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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