SpringSummerFallWinter

About Radicchio

Radicchio is a bitter heading chicory grown as an annual or biennial in the home garden. It will not reliably “come back year after year” like a true perennial in most beds. Cool weather makes tighter, sweeter heads.

When to Plant

Sow in late spring for a fall crop in most regions — summer heat often makes spring sowings bolt. In mild-winter areas, sow in late summer.

How to Plant

Sow ¼ inch deep. Thin to 8 inches (~2 plants per square foot). Rows 12–18 inches. Keep even moisture. Some growers cut plants back in late summer and let them rehead in fall.

When to Harvest

Cut heads when they are firm and colored. Outer leaves can be bitter; the heart is milder after frost.