When to plant Chicory in Monroe County, IA
In Monroe County, plant Chicory in spring between April 12 and May 3, once soil temps hold above 50°F. Monroe County's last frost averages April 26, so time plantings around the expected last-frost window for best survival. For a fall crop, sow between August 4 and August 18 — roughly 60–85 days before the first frost on October 13.
When to Plant Chicory in Monroe 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.
Monroe County, Iowa is in USDA Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is April 26 and the first fall frost is October 13, giving you a growing season of approximately 170 days.
At an elevation of 968 feet, Monroe County receives approximately 32.5 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 87°F, providing good warmth for Chicory during the growing season.
Monroe County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.2-7.3
Drainage
Well Drained
Monthly Watering Guide for Chicory
Chicory needs approximately 1 inches of water per week (4.3" per month). Here's how your county's rainfall compares month by month.
| Month | Chicory Needs | Rainfall | You Supplement | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | — | 1.4" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 1.5" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | — | 2.4" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Apr | 4.3" | 2.8" | 1.5" | 💧 Light watering |
| May | 4.3" | 3.5" | 0.8" | 💧 Light watering |
| Jun | 4.3" | 4.3" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jul | 4.3" | 4" | 0.3" | 💧 Light watering |
| Aug | 4.3" | 3.3" | 1" | 💧 Light watering |
| Sep | 4.3" | 3" | 1.3" | 💧 Light watering |
| Oct | 4.3" | 2.3" | 2" | 💧 Light watering |
| Nov | — | 2.1" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Dec | — | 1.8" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Apr–Oct in Monroe County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Chicory Planting Timeline — Monroe County, IA
Chicory Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 22 | Mar 22 – Apr 5 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 26 | Apr 26 – May 10 |
| Direct Sow | April 12 | Apr 12 – May 3 |
| Harvest | June 28 | Jun 28 – Aug 9 |
| Fall Sowing | August 4 | Aug 4 – Aug 18 |
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 Direct Sow |
| 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
170 days in Monroe County
Growing Tips for Monroe 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 Monroe County, IA?
Monroe County is in Zone 5b with an average last frost of April 26. Plan your Chicory planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Monroe County, IA?
Monroe County, Iowa is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is April 26 and first fall frost is October 13.
When should I plant Chicory in Monroe County, IA?
In Monroe County, IA, plant Chicory after the last frost (around April 26) and before the first frost (around October 13). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Monroe County, IA for Chicory?
Monroe 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 Monroe County's climate?
Yes — Chicory grows well in Monroe County's temperate climate. Monroe County averages a 170-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 26 and first frost around October 13.
Your Monroe County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Monroe 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.