When to Plant Radicchio in Alabama

Growing Radicchio in Alabama: Complete Guide

Radicchio (Cichorium intybus) is a warm-season crop that needs a head start indoors before Alabama's last frost. Most Alabama gardeners begin seeds indoors around Friday, February 20, 2026 and move transplants outside around Friday, March 6, 2026, after the risk of frost has passed.

Because Alabama stretches across 5 USDA hardiness zones (7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b), planting windows can shift by as much as six to eight weeks from one end of the state to the other. Gardeners in the warmer southern zones can start earlier, while those in cooler northern zones should wait until the zone table above shows their last frost has passed.

With 80 days to maturity, Radicchio needs the indoor head start that Alabama's growing season requires. Starting indoors ensures you have strong transplants ready the moment outdoor conditions are right.

Radicchio requires full sun to partial shade and regular (keep moist) moisture. Southeastern summers are hot and humid; mulch heavily to retain moisture and shade roots during peak heat.

For the most precise planting dates tailored to your exact location, enter your ZIP code on our planting calendar or use the zone table above to find the schedule for your area of Alabama.