When to plant Chicory in Covington County, MS
In Covington County, plant Chicory in spring between February 26 and March 19, once soil temps hold above 50°F. Covington County's last frost averages March 12, so most warm-season crops establish quickly once soil holds above 60°F. For a fall crop, sow between September 6 and September 20 — roughly 60–85 days before the first frost on November 15.
When to Plant Chicory in Covington County, MS
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.
Covington County, Mississippi is in USDA Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 12 and the first fall frost is November 15, giving you a growing season of approximately 248 days.
At an elevation of 469 feet, Covington County receives approximately 48.8 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay loam soil. Summer highs average 97°F, so Chicory may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. Clay soil retains moisture well for Chicory, but amend with compost to improve drainage and prevent root rot.
Covington County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
5.3-6.2
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 | — | 3.7" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 4.3" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | 4.3" | 4.3" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Apr | 4.3" | 3.4" | 0.9" | 💧 Light watering |
| May | 4.3" | 3.9" | 0.4" | 💧 Light watering |
| Jun | 4.3" | 4.2" | 0.1" | 💧 Light watering |
| Jul | 4.3" | 5.6" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Aug | 4.3" | 4.6" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Sep | 4.3" | 4.2" | 0.1" | 💧 Light watering |
| Oct | 4.3" | 2.7" | 1.6" | 💧 Light watering |
| Nov | 4.3" | 3.7" | 0.6" | 💧 Light watering |
| Dec | — | 4.2" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Mar–Nov in Covington County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Chicory Planting Timeline — Covington County, MS
Chicory Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | February 5 | Feb 5 – Feb 19 |
| Transplant Outdoors | March 12 | Mar 12 – Mar 26 |
| Direct Sow | February 26 | Feb 26 – Mar 19 |
| Harvest | May 14 | May 14 – Jun 25 |
| Fall Sowing | September 6 | Sep 6 – Sep 20 |
Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | Start Indoors Direct Sow |
| March | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| April | — |
| May | Harvest |
| June | Harvest |
| July | — |
| August | — |
| September | Fall Sowing |
| 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 8b
📆 Growing Season
248 days in Covington County
Growing Tips for Covington 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 Covington County, MS?
Covington County is in Zone 8b with an average last frost of March 12. Plan your Chicory planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Covington County, MS?
Covington County, Mississippi is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 12 and first fall frost is November 15.
When should I plant Chicory in Covington County, MS?
In Covington County, MS, plant Chicory after the last frost (around March 12) and before the first frost (around November 15). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Covington County, MS for Chicory?
Covington County sits in USDA Zone 8b. Chicory grows reliably in zones 3a through 10b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Chicory grow in Covington County's climate?
Yes — Chicory grows well in Covington County's temperate climate. Covington County averages a 248-day frost-free season, with last frost around March 12 and first frost around November 15.
Your Covington County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Covington County (Zone 8b). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.