When to plant Chicory in Wilson County, KS
Spring Chicory in Wilson County goes in March 24–April 14, once nighttime temps stop dipping near freezing. A second sowing from August 16 to August 30 extends the harvest into fall.
When to Plant Chicory in Wilson County, KS
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.
Wilson County, Kansas is in USDA Zone 7a. The average last spring frost is April 7 and the first fall frost is October 25, giving you a growing season of approximately 201 days.
At an elevation of 595 feet, Wilson County receives approximately 32.3 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly loam soil. Summer highs average 88°F, providing good warmth for Chicory during the growing season.
Wilson County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.3-7.5
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 | — | 0.7" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 1" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | — | 2.2" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Apr | 4.3" | 3.4" | 0.9" | 💧 Light watering |
| May | 4.3" | 4.5" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jun | 4.3" | 5.6" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jul | 4.3" | 3.9" | 0.4" | 💧 Light watering |
| Aug | 4.3" | 3.5" | 0.8" | 💧 Light watering |
| Sep | 4.3" | 3.3" | 1" | 💧 Light watering |
| Oct | 4.3" | 2.3" | 2" | 💧 Light watering |
| Nov | — | 1.1" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Dec | — | 0.7" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Apr–Oct in Wilson County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Chicory Planting Timeline — Wilson County, KS
Chicory Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 3 | Mar 3 – Mar 17 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 7 | Apr 7 – Apr 21 |
| Direct Sow | March 24 | Mar 24 – Apr 14 |
| Harvest | June 9 | Jun 9 – Jul 21 |
| Fall Sowing | August 16 | Aug 16 – Aug 30 |
Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Start Indoors Direct Sow |
| April | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| May | — |
| 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
60–85 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 5.5–7 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 7a
📆 Growing Season
201 days in Wilson County
Growing Tips for Wilson 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 Wilson County, KS?
Wilson County is in Zone 7a with an average last frost of April 7. Plan your Chicory planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Wilson County, KS?
Wilson County, Kansas is in USDA Hardiness Zone 7a. The average last spring frost is April 7 and first fall frost is October 25.
When should I plant Chicory in Wilson County, KS?
In Wilson County, KS, plant Chicory after the last frost (around April 7) and before the first frost (around October 25). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Wilson County, KS for Chicory?
Wilson County sits in USDA Zone 7a. Chicory grows reliably in zones 3a through 10b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Chicory grow in Wilson County's climate?
Yes — Chicory grows well in Wilson County's temperate climate. Wilson County averages a 201-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 7 and first frost around October 25.
Your Wilson County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Wilson County (Zone 7a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.