When to plant Chicory in Lewis County, MO
Plant Chicory in Lewis County from April 1 to April 22 in spring. Lewis County sits in USDA Zone 6a, with last frost around April 15 and first frost on October 17. A second sowing from August 8 to August 22 extends the harvest into fall.
When to Plant Chicory in Lewis 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.
Lewis County, Missouri is in USDA Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is April 15 and the first fall frost is October 17, giving you a growing season of approximately 185 days.
At an elevation of 945 feet, Lewis County receives approximately 31.8 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 86°F, providing good warmth for Chicory during the growing season.
Lewis County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.3-6.8
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 | — | 1.1" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 1.5" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | — | 2.4" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Apr | 4.3" | 3.3" | 1" | 💧 Light watering |
| May | 4.3" | 4.1" | 0.2" | 💧 Light watering |
| Jun | 4.3" | 4.2" | 0.1" | 💧 Light watering |
| Jul | 4.3" | 3.1" | 1.2" | 💧 Light watering |
| Aug | 4.3" | 3.5" | 0.8" | 💧 Light watering |
| Sep | 4.3" | 2.9" | 1.4" | 💧 Light watering |
| Oct | 4.3" | 2.2" | 2.1" | 💧 Light watering |
| Nov | — | 2.1" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Dec | — | 1.5" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Apr–Oct in Lewis County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Chicory Planting Timeline — Lewis County, MO
Chicory Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 11 | Mar 11 – Mar 25 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 15 | Apr 15 – Apr 29 |
| Direct Sow | April 1 | Apr 1 – Apr 22 |
| Harvest | June 17 | Jun 17 – Jul 29 |
| Fall Sowing | August 8 | Aug 8 – Aug 22 |
Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Start Indoors |
| 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 6a
📆 Growing Season
185 days in Lewis County
Growing Tips for Lewis 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 Lewis County, MO?
Lewis County is in Zone 6a with an average last frost of April 15. Plan your Chicory planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Lewis County, MO?
Lewis County, Missouri is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is April 15 and first fall frost is October 17.
When should I plant Chicory in Lewis County, MO?
In Lewis County, MO, plant Chicory after the last frost (around April 15) and before the first frost (around October 17). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Lewis County, MO for Chicory?
Lewis 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 Lewis County's climate?
Yes — Chicory grows well in Lewis County's temperate climate. Lewis County averages a 185-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 15 and first frost around October 17.
Your Lewis County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Lewis 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.