When to plant Chicory in Branch County, MI
The best window to plant Chicory in Branch County, is April 14–May 5, when soil warms to 50°F. Last frost typically hits April 28; first frost October 14. A second sowing from August 5 to August 19 extends the harvest into fall.
When to Plant Chicory in Branch County, MI
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.
Branch County, Michigan is in USDA Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is April 28 and the first fall frost is October 14, giving you a growing season of approximately 169 days.
At an elevation of 900 feet, Branch County receives approximately 39.3 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 84°F, so choose short-season varieties of Chicory to ensure they mature before fall.
Branch County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Chicory Planting Timeline — Branch County, MI
Chicory Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 24 | Mar 24 – Apr 7 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 28 | Apr 28 – May 12 |
| Direct Sow | April 14 | Apr 14 – May 5 |
| Harvest | June 30 | Jun 30 – Aug 11 |
| Fall Sowing | August 5 | Aug 5 – Aug 19 |
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 6a
📆 Growing Season
169 days in Branch County
Growing Tips for Branch 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 Branch County, MI?
Branch County is in Zone 6a with an average last frost of April 28. Plan your Chicory planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Branch County, MI?
Branch County, Michigan is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is April 28 and first fall frost is October 14.
When should I plant Chicory in Branch County, MI?
In Branch County, MI, plant Chicory after the last frost (around April 28) and before the first frost (around October 14). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Branch County, MI for Chicory?
Branch 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 Branch County's climate?
Yes — Chicory grows well in Branch County's temperate climate. Branch County averages a 169-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 28 and first frost around October 14.
Your Branch County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Branch 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.