When to plant Chicory in Ottawa County, MI
The best window to plant Chicory in Ottawa County, is April 25–May 16, when soil warms to 50°F. Last frost typically hits May 9; first frost October 9. A second sowing from July 31 to August 14 extends the harvest into fall.
When to Plant Chicory in Ottawa 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.
Ottawa County, Michigan is in USDA Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is May 9 and the first fall frost is October 9, giving you a growing season of approximately 153 days.
At an elevation of 1,027 feet, Ottawa County receives approximately 41.9 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.
Ottawa County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Chicory Planting Timeline — Ottawa County, MI
Chicory Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | April 4 | Apr 4 – Apr 18 |
| Transplant Outdoors | May 9 | May 9 – May 23 |
| Direct Sow | April 25 | Apr 25 – May 16 |
| Harvest | July 11 | Jul 11 – Aug 22 |
| Fall Sowing | July 31 | Jul 31 – Aug 14 |
Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | Start Indoors Direct Sow |
| May | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| June | — |
| July | Fall Sowing 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
153 days in Ottawa County
Growing Tips for Ottawa 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 Ottawa County, MI?
Ottawa County is in Zone 6a with an average last frost of May 9. Plan your Chicory planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Ottawa County, MI?
Ottawa County, Michigan is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is May 9 and first fall frost is October 9.
When should I plant Chicory in Ottawa County, MI?
In Ottawa County, MI, plant Chicory after the last frost (around May 9) and before the first frost (around October 9). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Ottawa County, MI for Chicory?
Ottawa 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 Ottawa County's climate?
Yes — Chicory grows well in Ottawa County's temperate climate. Ottawa County averages a 153-day frost-free season, with last frost around May 9 and first frost around October 9.
Your Ottawa County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Ottawa 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.