When to plant Chicory in Decatur County, IA
Decatur County gardeners should plant Chicory between April 9 and April 30 in spring. With Decatur County's Zone 5b climate (last frost April 23), Chicory needs 60–85 days to mature — plant by July 19 for a full harvest. A second sowing from August 3 to August 17 extends the harvest into fall.
When to Plant Chicory in Decatur 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.
Decatur County, Iowa is in USDA Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is April 23 and the first fall frost is October 12, giving you a growing season of approximately 172 days.
At an elevation of 541 feet, Decatur County receives approximately 39 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 83°F, so choose short-season varieties of Chicory to ensure they mature before fall.
Decatur County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Chicory Planting Timeline — Decatur County, IA
Chicory 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 – Aug 6 |
| Fall Sowing | August 3 | Aug 3 – Aug 17 |
Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" 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 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
172 days in Decatur County
Growing Tips for Decatur 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 Decatur County, IA?
Decatur County is in Zone 5b with an average last frost of April 23. Plan your Chicory planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Decatur County, IA?
Decatur County, Iowa is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is April 23 and first fall frost is October 12.
When should I plant Chicory in Decatur County, IA?
In Decatur County, IA, plant Chicory after the last frost (around April 23) and before the first frost (around October 12). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Decatur County, IA for Chicory?
Decatur 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 Decatur County's climate?
Yes — Chicory grows well in Decatur County's temperate climate. Decatur County averages a 172-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 23 and first frost around October 12.
Your Decatur County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Decatur 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.