When to plant Radicchio in Jersey County, IL
In Zone 6b (Jersey County), direct-sow Radicchio between March 28 and April 18 for spring, after the April 11 last-frost mark. A second sowing from August 12 to August 26 extends the harvest into fall.
When to Plant Radicchio in Jersey County, IL
Jersey County, Illinois gardeners: here's your July plan
Your Jersey County, Illinois garden is entering a new phase. Here's what's on the schedule for July and why each task matters now.
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Bring in the radicchio
Taste as you pick. The first ripe produce is the best feedback loop you'll get all season.
To set up a strong August, finish these tasks
- Fall sowing: radicchio
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.
Jersey County, Illinois is in USDA Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 11 and the first fall frost is October 21, giving you a growing season of approximately 193 days.
At an elevation of 1,202 feet, Jersey County receives approximately 34.5 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 88°F, providing good warmth for Radicchio during the growing season.
Jersey County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.7-7.2
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 Jersey County
How your county's soil matches Radicchio's growing requirements.
Soil pH
Your soil pH (5.7–7.2) overlaps with Radicchio's range (6.0–7.0), though not a perfect match.
Soil Texture
The silt loam soil in Jersey County is excellent for Radicchio — good drainage, moisture retention, and nutrient holding capacity.
Organic Matter
Organic matter is excellent (4.1%) — Radicchio will thrive.
How to Plant Radicchio
Fall planting: Sow 10 weeks before your first frost date for a fall harvest.
Succession Planting Radicchio
Sow every 6.9 weeks. Last sowing by Aug 02 to harvest before frost.
For a dedicated fall crop, sow by Aug 12.
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 | — | 1.2" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 1.7" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | — | 2.4" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Apr | 3" | 3.2" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| May | 3" | 4.3" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jun | 3" | 4" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jul | 3" | 3.7" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Aug | 3" | 4.1" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Sep | 3" | 2.9" | 0.1" | 💧 Light watering |
| Oct | 3" | 2.4" | 0.6" | 💧 Light watering |
| Nov | — | 2.6" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Dec | — | 1.8" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Apr–Oct in Jersey 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 — Jersey County, IL
Radicchio Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 7 | Mar 7 – Mar 21 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 11 | Apr 11 – Apr 25 |
| Direct Sow | March 28 | Mar 28 – Apr 18 |
| Harvest | June 13 | Jun 13 – Jul 18 |
| Fall Sowing | August 12 | Aug 12 – Aug 26 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 6" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Start Indoors Direct Sow |
| April | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| May | — |
| June | Harvest |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Fall Sowing |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
0.7"/week · Natural rainfall sufficient
📅 Days to Maturity
60–80 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7 · Your soil: acceptable
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 6b
📆 Growing Season
193 days in Jersey County
Growing Tips for Radicchio in Jersey County
Direct sow Radicchio outdoors after April 11 in Jersey County when soil has warmed and frost danger has passed.
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
Avoid Planting Near
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Radicchio in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Radicchio in Jersey County, IL?
Jersey County is in Zone 6b with an average last frost of April 11. Plan your Radicchio planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Jersey County, IL?
Jersey County, Illinois is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 11 and first fall frost is October 21.
When should I plant Radicchio in Jersey County, IL?
In Jersey County, IL, plant Radicchio after the last frost (around April 11) and before the first frost (around October 21). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Jersey County, IL for Radicchio?
Jersey County sits in USDA Zone 6b. Radicchio grows reliably in zones 4a through 10b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Radicchio grow in Jersey County's climate?
Yes — Radicchio grows well in Jersey County's temperate climate. Jersey County averages a 193-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 11 and first frost around October 21.
Your Jersey County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Jersey County (Zone 6b). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.