When to plant Chicory in Clay County, IN
Plant Chicory in Clay County from April 4 to April 25 in spring. Clay County sits in USDA Zone 6a, with last frost around April 18 and first frost on October 17. A second sowing from August 8 to August 22 extends the harvest into fall.
When to Plant Chicory in Clay County, IN
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.
Clay County, Indiana is in USDA Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is April 18 and the first fall frost is October 17, giving you a growing season of approximately 182 days.
At an elevation of 886 feet, Clay County receives approximately 31.3 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 86°F, providing good warmth for Chicory during the growing season.
Clay County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Chicory Planting Timeline — Clay County, IN
Chicory Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 14 | Mar 14 – Mar 28 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 18 | Apr 18 – May 2 |
| Direct Sow | April 4 | Apr 4 – Apr 25 |
| Harvest | June 20 | Jun 20 – Aug 1 |
| Fall Sowing | August 8 | Aug 8 – Aug 22 |
Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" 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 Harvest |
| September | — |
| 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 6a
📆 Growing Season
182 days in Clay County
Growing Tips for Clay 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 Clay County, IN?
Clay County is in Zone 6a with an average last frost of April 18. Plan your Chicory planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Clay County, IN?
Clay County, Indiana is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is April 18 and first fall frost is October 17.
When should I plant Chicory in Clay County, IN?
In Clay County, IN, plant Chicory after the last frost (around April 18) and before the first frost (around October 17). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Clay County, IN for Chicory?
Clay County sits in USDA Zone 6a. Chicory grows reliably in zones 3a through 10b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Chicory grow in Clay County's climate?
Yes — Chicory grows well in Clay County's temperate climate. Clay County averages a 182-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 18 and first frost around October 17.
Your Clay County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Clay County (Zone 6a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.