When to plant Radicchio in Stephenson County, IL
The best window to plant Radicchio in Stephenson County, is April 9–April 30, when soil warms to 50°F. Last frost typically hits April 23; first frost October 13. A second sowing from August 4 to August 18 extends the harvest into fall.
When to Plant Radicchio in Stephenson County, IL
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.
Stephenson County, Illinois is in USDA Zone 5a. The average last spring frost is April 23 and the first fall frost is October 13, giving you a growing season of approximately 173 days.
At an elevation of 1,345 feet, Stephenson County receives approximately 36.2 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 85°F, providing good warmth for Radicchio during the growing season.
Stephenson County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Radicchio Planting Timeline — Stephenson County, IL
Radicchio Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 19 | Mar 19 – Apr 2 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 23 | Apr 23 – May 7 |
| Direct Sow | April 9 | Apr 9 – Apr 30 |
| Harvest | June 25 | Jun 25 – Jul 30 |
| Fall Sowing | August 4 | Aug 4 – Aug 18 |
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 |
| 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
Needs 6–7 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 5a
📆 Growing Season
173 days in Stephenson County
Growing Tips for Stephenson 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
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Radicchio in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Radicchio in Stephenson County, IL?
Stephenson County is in Zone 5a with an average last frost of April 23. Plan your Radicchio planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Stephenson County, IL?
Stephenson County, Illinois is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5a. The average last spring frost is April 23 and first fall frost is October 13.
When should I plant Radicchio in Stephenson County, IL?
In Stephenson County, IL, plant Radicchio after the last frost (around April 23) and before the first frost (around October 13). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Stephenson County, IL for Radicchio?
Stephenson County sits in USDA Zone 5a. Radicchio grows reliably in zones 4a through 10b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Radicchio grow in Stephenson County's climate?
Yes — Radicchio grows well in Stephenson County's temperate climate. Stephenson County averages a 173-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 23 and first frost around October 13.
Your Stephenson County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Stephenson 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.