When to plant Chicory in Davis County, IA
The best window to plant Chicory in Davis County, is April 5–April 26, when soil warms to 50°F. Last frost typically hits April 19; first frost October 16. A second sowing from August 7 to August 21 extends the harvest into fall.
When to Plant Chicory in Davis County, IA
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.
Davis County, Iowa is in USDA Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is April 19 and the first fall frost is October 16, giving you a growing season of approximately 180 days.
At an elevation of 859 feet, Davis County receives approximately 30.3 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 85°F, providing good warmth for Chicory during the growing season.
Davis County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Chicory Planting Timeline — Davis County, IA
Chicory Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 15 | Mar 15 – Mar 29 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 19 | Apr 19 – May 3 |
| Direct Sow | April 5 | Apr 5 – Apr 26 |
| Harvest | June 21 | Jun 21 – Aug 2 |
| Fall Sowing | August 7 | Aug 7 – Aug 21 |
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 5b
📆 Growing Season
180 days in Davis County
Growing Tips for Davis 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 Davis County, IA?
Davis County is in Zone 5b with an average last frost of April 19. Plan your Chicory planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Davis County, IA?
Davis County, Iowa is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is April 19 and first fall frost is October 16.
When should I plant Chicory in Davis County, IA?
In Davis County, IA, plant Chicory after the last frost (around April 19) and before the first frost (around October 16). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Davis County, IA for Chicory?
Davis County sits in USDA Zone 5b. Chicory grows reliably in zones 3a through 10b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Chicory grow in Davis County's climate?
Yes — Chicory grows well in Davis County's temperate climate. Davis County averages a 180-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 19 and first frost around October 16.
Your Davis County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Davis County (Zone 5b). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.