When to plant Radicchio in Reddick, FL
The best window to plant Radicchio in Reddick, is January 25–February 15, when soil warms to 50°F. Last frost typically hits February 15; first frost December 1. A second sowing from October 6 to October 20 extends the harvest into fall.
When to Plant Radicchio in Reddick, FL
This month in Marion County, Florida
Each item below is timed to Marion County, Florida's frost dates and soil temperatures. Skip nothing, stress about nothing.
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.
Reddick, Florida is in USDA Zone 9a. The average last spring frost is February 15 and the first fall frost is December 1, giving you a growing season of approximately 289 days.
At an elevation of 244 feet, Marion County receives approximately 54.1 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly sand soil. Summer highs average 97°F, so Radicchio may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. Sandy soil warms quickly in spring — great for early planting — but Radicchio will need more frequent watering and organic matter to retain nutrients. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Radicchio root diseases.
Reddick Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sand
Soil pH
4.8-5.9
Drainage
Well Drained
Radicchio 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.
Soil Compatibility in Reddick
How your county's soil matches Radicchio's growing requirements.
Soil pH
Your soil pH (4.8–5.9) is more acidic than Radicchio prefers (6.0–7.0). Add garden lime to raise pH.
Soil Texture
Sandy soil in Marion County warms quickly in spring but drains fast. Radicchio will need more frequent watering and regular compost additions to retain nutrients.
Drainage
Drainage is adequate for Radicchio.
Organic Matter
Organic matter is low (1.6%). Add 2-3 inches of compost before planting Radicchio.
How to Plant Radicchio
Fall planting: Sow 8 weeks before your first frost date for a fall harvest.
Succession Planting Radicchio
Sow every 6.9 weeks. Last sowing by Sep 12 to harvest before frost.
For a dedicated fall crop, sow by Oct 06.
Radicchio Water Budget
Monthly Watering Guide for Radicchio
Radicchio needs approximately 0.7 inches of water per week (3" per month). Here's how your county's rainfall compares month by month.
| Month | Radicchio Needs | Rainfall | You Supplement | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | — | 2.2" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | 3" | 2.7" | 0.3" | 💧 Light watering |
| Mar | 3" | 3.5" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Apr | 3" | 2.2" | 0.8" | 💧 Light watering |
| May | 3" | 3.6" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jun | 3" | 7.2" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jul | 3" | 8.6" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Aug | 3" | 8.6" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Sep | 3" | 7.4" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Oct | 3" | 3.9" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Nov | 3" | 2.2" | 0.8" | 💧 Light watering |
| Dec | 3" | 2.1" | 0.9" | 💧 Light watering |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Feb–Dec in Marion County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Radicchio Heat Requirements (GDD)
What are Growing Degree Days (GDD)?
Growing Degree Days measure the total warmth your plants receive during the growing season. Think of it as a "heat bank" — every day above 50°F deposits warmth that helps your plants grow.
Each plant needs a certain amount of accumulated heat to mature. If your county provides more GDD than the plant needs, it's a great fit. If it's close, you may want to choose faster-maturing varieties or start seeds indoors to get a head start.
Radicchio Planting Timeline — Reddick, FL
Radicchio Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | January 18 | Jan 18 – Feb 1 |
| Transplant Outdoors | February 15 | Feb 15 – Mar 1 |
| Direct Sow | January 25 | Jan 25 – Feb 15 |
| Harvest | April 19 | Apr 19 – May 24 |
| Fall Sowing | October 6 | Oct 6 – Oct 20 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 6" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | Start Indoors Direct Sow |
| February | Start Indoors Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| March | Transplant Outdoors |
| April | Harvest |
| May | Harvest |
| June | — |
| July | — |
| August | — |
| September | — |
| October | Fall Sowing |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
0.7"/week · Only during dry spells
📅 Days to Maturity
60–80 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7 · Your soil: too_acidic
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 9a
📆 Growing Season
289 days in Marion County
Growing Tips for Radicchio in Reddick
Direct sow Radicchio outdoors after February 15 in Marion County when soil has warmed and frost danger has passed.
Sandy soil in Marion County dries quickly — mulch Radicchio with 2-3 inches of straw and water deeply 2-3 times per week rather than lightly every day.
With summer highs reaching 97°F in Marion County, provide afternoon shade for Radicchio and water deeply in the morning.
Common pests for Radicchio in this region include aphids and slugs. Use row covers early in the season and inspect plants weekly.
General growing tips
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
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Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Radicchio in Other Locations
When should I plant Radicchio in Reddick, FL?
In Reddick, FL, plant Radicchio after the last frost (around February 15) and before the first frost (around December 1). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Reddick, FL for Radicchio?
Reddick sits in USDA Zone 9a. Radicchio grows reliably in zones 4a through 10b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Radicchio grow in Reddick's climate?
Yes — Radicchio grows well in Reddick's temperate climate. Reddick averages a 290-day frost-free season, with last frost around February 15 and first frost around December 1.
Your Marion County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Marion County (Zone 9a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.