When to plant Chicory in Carter County, MO
Carter County gardeners should plant Chicory between March 26 and April 16 in spring. With Carter County's Zone 7a climate (last frost April 9), Chicory needs 60–85 days to mature — plant by August 2 for a full harvest. A second sowing from August 17 to August 31 extends the harvest into fall.
When to Plant Chicory in Carter County, MO
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.
Carter County, Missouri is in USDA Zone 7a. The average last spring frost is April 9 and the first fall frost is October 26, giving you a growing season of approximately 200 days.
At an elevation of 1,335 feet, Carter County receives approximately 38.6 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 88°F, providing good warmth for Chicory during the growing season.
Carter County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Chicory Planting Timeline — Carter County, MO
Chicory Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 5 | Mar 5 – Mar 19 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 9 | Apr 9 – Apr 23 |
| Direct Sow | March 26 | Mar 26 – Apr 16 |
| Harvest | June 11 | Jun 11 – Jul 23 |
| Fall Sowing | August 17 | Aug 17 – Aug 31 |
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
200 days in Carter County
Growing Tips for Carter 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 Carter County, MO?
Carter County is in Zone 7a with an average last frost of April 9. Plan your Chicory planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Carter County, MO?
Carter County, Missouri is in USDA Hardiness Zone 7a. The average last spring frost is April 9 and first fall frost is October 26.
When should I plant Chicory in Carter County, MO?
In Carter County, MO, plant Chicory after the last frost (around April 9) and before the first frost (around October 26). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Carter County, MO for Chicory?
Carter 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 Carter County's climate?
Yes — Chicory grows well in Carter County's temperate climate. Carter County averages a 200-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 9 and first frost around October 26.
Your Carter County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Carter 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.