When to Plant Radicchio in Virginia

Growing Radicchio in Virginia: Complete Guide

Radicchio (Cichorium intybus) is a warm-season crop that needs a head start indoors before Virginia's last frost. Depending on your zone, Virginia gardeners start seeds indoors between February 15, 2027 (Zone 8b) and March 23, 2027 (Zone 6a), then move transplants outside once their zone's last frost has passed — the zone table above has your exact dates.

Because Virginia stretches across 6 USDA hardiness zones (6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b), 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 Virginia'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. Mid-Atlantic summers bring heat and humidity — ensure good air circulation and watch for fungal issues like powdery mildew.

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 Virginia.