Radicchio Growing Guide
Radicchio is a great next step in your growing journey. Follow this guide from planting to harvest and you'll do great.
At a Glance
Difficulty
Moderate
Category
Vegetable
Sun Exposure
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Frost Tolerance
Frost Hardy
Growing Zones
Zones 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Plant Family
Asteraceae
Growing Season
Cool Season
Plant Lifecycle
Biennial
Also grows well as
When To Start
First Chance to Plant
30 Days Before Last Frost
Last Chance to Plant
60 Days Before First Frost
When should you plant Radicchio?
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Your Radicchio Planting Window
Start planting
May 15, 2026
Last chance
Sep 10, 2026
The Journey Ahead
Radicchio's Lifecycle
Seedling
Mature Plant
Seed Production
Step 2
Planting & Sprouting
Expect sprouts in 7–14 days
Growing Tips
- 1Plant radicchio in well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5, ensuring it receives full sun to partial shade.
- 2Water consistently to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, as uneven watering can lead to bitterness.
- 3Space plants about 12 inches apart to allow for proper air circulation, which helps prevent fungal diseases.
- 4Use row covers to protect against pests like aphids and slugs.
Seedling Phase
Step 3
Growth & Maturity
~70
Days to Maturity
30 cm
Mature Height
20 cm
Mature Width
Pests to Watch For
Diseases to Watch For
Mature Plant
Step 4
Harvesting
Harvest Window
30 days
When to Pick
Harvest heads when firm and full color
How to Harvest
- 1Harvest radicchio when the heads are firm and compact, typically in the fall or early winter.
- 2Use a sharp knife to cut the head at the base, just above the soil line, to avoid damaging the roots.
- 3Leave the outer leaves intact to protect the plant and encourage regrowth.
Step 5
Saving Seeds
How to Save Seeds
Saving seeds from your radicchio plant is a rewarding and simple process that any new grower can master! Allow your radicchio to flower and form seed heads—these will look like fluffy dandelions. Once the seed heads are dry and brown, gently snip them off and shake out the seeds. Let the seeds dry for a few days in a cool, dry place, then store them in a labeled envelope or jar in a dark, dry spot until next season. You’ve just taken the first step toward a self-sustaining garden—saving seeds is easier than you think, and you’ll love seeing your own plants come full circle!
Seed Production
