When to plant Chicory in Summit County, CO
Plant Chicory in Summit County from June 2 to June 23 in spring. Summit County sits in USDA Zone 5a, with last frost around June 16 and first frost on September 4. A second sowing from June 26 to July 10 extends the harvest into fall.
When to Plant Chicory in Summit County, CO
Chicory is a hardy perennial grown for its bitter leaves and roots. The roots can be roasted as a coffee substitute, and the leaves add complexity to salads.
Summit County, Colorado is in USDA Zone 5a. The average last spring frost is June 16 and the first fall frost is September 4, giving you a growing season of approximately 80 days.
At an elevation of 7,005 feet, Summit County receives approximately 17.5 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly loam soil. Summer highs average 81°F, so choose short-season varieties of Chicory to ensure they mature before fall. With low rainfall, drip irrigation is essential for growing Chicory successfully. Mulch heavily to conserve soil moisture.
Summit County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Chicory Planting Timeline — Summit County, CO
Chicory Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | May 12 | May 12 – May 26 |
| Transplant Outdoors | June 16 | Jun 16 – Jun 30 |
| Direct Sow | June 2 | Jun 2 – Jun 23 |
| Harvest | August 18 | Aug 18 – Sep 29 |
| Fall Sowing | June 26 | Jun 26 – Jul 10 |
Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | — |
| May | Start Indoors |
| June | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow Fall Sowing |
| July | Fall Sowing |
| August | Harvest |
| September | Harvest |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
Moderate — regular watering
📅 Days to Maturity
60–85 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 5.5–7 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 5a
📆 Growing Season
80 days in Summit County
Growing Tips for Summit County
Sow seeds directly in spring. Thin plants to 8-12 inches apart. For forcing, dig roots in fall and replant in a dark, cool area to produce blanched chicons.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Chicory in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Chicory in Summit County, CO?
Summit County is in Zone 5a with an average last frost of June 16. Plan your Chicory planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Summit County, CO?
Summit County, Colorado is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5a. The average last spring frost is June 16 and first fall frost is September 4.
When should I plant Chicory in Summit County, CO?
In Summit County, CO, plant Chicory after the last frost (around June 16) and before the first frost (around September 4). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Summit County, CO for Chicory?
Summit County sits in USDA Zone 5a. Chicory grows reliably in zones 3a through 10b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Chicory grow in Summit County's climate?
Yes — Chicory grows well in Summit County's temperate climate. Summit County averages a 80-day frost-free season, with last frost around June 16 and first frost around September 4.
Your Summit County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Summit County (Zone 5a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.