How to Grow Radicchio
Get Your Exact Radicchio Planting Dates
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Your Radicchio dates ·
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Supplies You'll Need
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Plant Overview
Growing Requirements
Sun
Full Sun to Partial Shade
Water
Regular (keep moist)
Spacing
10" apart
Depth
0.25" deep
Height
6-12"
Germination
5-10 days
Ready to Grow Radicchio?
Find quality seeds from trusted suppliers.
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Seed Saving Guide
ModerateWhen to Harvest Seed
Allow plants to bolt in year 2 and seed heads to dry on the stalk.
Processing
Cut dried stalks, thresh and winnow to separate seeds.
Seed Viability
Up to 3 years when stored cool, dark, and dry.
Pro Tip
Radicchio is a chicory — crosses with endive, escarole, and wild chicory. Isolate by 300 feet.
Seed Storage Supplies
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Raised Bed Planting Guides
A 4×8 bed fits 46 plants of Radicchio. See plant counts, spacing grids, and companion pairings for every bed size →
Radicchio Planting Calendar by Zone
Radicchio Planting Calendar by State
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Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Radicchio? +
Start Radicchio seeds indoors 4 weeks before your last frost date, then transplant outdoors -2 weeks after the last frost. Use the search on this page to find exact dates for your ZIP code or city.
How long does Radicchio take to grow? +
Radicchio typically matures in about 80 days from planting. Exact timing varies by variety, soil conditions, and local climate.
Should I start Radicchio indoors or direct sow? +
Radicchio should be started indoors 4 weeks before the last frost date. This gives seedlings time to establish before being transplanted outside after frost danger has passed.
How much sun does Radicchio need? +
Radicchio requires full sun to partial shade to thrive.
How far apart should I plant Radicchio? +
Space Radicchio plants 10 inches apart to allow adequate airflow and root development.
How much water does Radicchio need? +
Radicchio has regular (keep moist) water needs. Consistent moisture is important especially during germination and early growth.
Can you save seeds from Radicchio? +
Yes — seed saving difficulty for Radicchio is rated moderate. Allow plants to bolt in year 2 and seed heads to dry on the stalk. Cut dried stalks, thresh and winnow to separate seeds.
How long do Radicchio seeds last in storage? +
Properly dried and stored Radicchio seeds remain viable for up to 3 years. Store in a cool, dark, dry location in an airtight container with a silica gel packet for best results.
Are Radicchio seeds open-pollinated? +
Yes — Radicchio is open-pollinated, meaning seeds saved from your harvest will grow plants true to the parent variety. This makes it an excellent candidate for building a self-sustaining garden.
About Radicchio
Bitter Italian chicory with distinctive red-and-white leaves. Flavor mellows when grilled or roasted. Best quality when heads develop in cool fall weather.
Expect your Radicchio to be ready for harvest in approximately 80 days from planting.
Use the search above or browse by zone or state to find the perfect planting dates for your location.