How to Grow Indigo
Cichorium intybus
Your complete guide to growing Indigo.
📷 Wikimedia CommonsWhen to Plant Indigo
Planting windows vary by USDA hardiness zone. Look up yours by ZIP code.
| Zone | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Harvest |
|---|---|---|---|
| Zone 1 | — | June – July | August – September |
| Zone 2 | — | May – July | July – September |
| Zone 3 | — | May – June | July – October |
| Zone 4 | — | April – June | June – October |
| Zone 5 | — | April – May | June – November |
| Zone 6 | — | April – May | June – November |
| Zone 7 | — | March – May | May – November |
| Zone 8 | — | March – April | May – December |
| Zone 9 | — | February – March | April – December |
| Zone 10 | — | January – March | March – December |
| Zone 11 | — | January – February | February – December |
| Zone 12 | — | January – February | February – December |
| Zone 13 | — | January – February | February – December |
Companion Plants for Indigo
✓ Good companions
Deep roots don't compete with shallow lettuce roots, and carrots help loosen soil
Repels aphids and improves lettuce flavor while providing natural pest deterrent
Attracts beneficial insects like ladybugs that prey on lettuce pests
Natural fungicide properties help prevent lettuce diseases and repel soft-bodied pests
Repel nematodes, aphids, and other pests that commonly attack lettuce
Act as trap crop for aphids and cucumber beetles while attracting beneficial insects
Quick-growing radishes help break up soil and can be harvested before lettuce needs space
Similar growing requirements and shallow roots make them compatible garden neighbors
✗ Keep away from
Large leaves create excessive shade and compete for nutrients, stunting lettuce growth
Can attract similar pests and may compete for nutrients in the same soil layer
Allelopathic compounds inhibit lettuce germination and growth
Nutrition Facts
Per 100g serving (USDA FoodData Central)
