Basics

Ease of Growing
Moderate
Grown as
Annual
Days to Maturity
52-83 (Spring/Summer), 52-83 (Fall/Winter)
Growing Habit
-
Hardiness
Hardy

Chicory is quite hardy and can overwinter quite well in milder climates.

Crops
Spring Transplant, Spring, Fall Transplant, Fall
Growing Season
Long
Cultivar Type
-
Growing Conditions
Cold, Cool

Chicory tolerates acidic soils with a pH of 5.5-7.0. Nutritional and watering requirements are moderate. Grow in similar soil as lettuce.

Outdoor Growing Temp
45°F - 75°F
Min Outdoor Soil Temp
45°F
-
Start Indoors
Yes
Start Outdoors
Yes
Light
Part shade (Warm)

In warm conditions it will probably do better in light shade. The plant is similar to Lettuce in many ways, including its tendency to turn bitter or bolt in hot weather.

Sun: min. 6 hours daily (Cool)

Full sun is important when Chicory is growing in cool weather. The plant is similar to Lettuce in many ways, including its tendency to turn bitter or bolt in hot weather.

Water
High

Chicory is like lettuce in that it likes moist, cool soil. Hot weather makes its leaves bitter.

Feeder
Moderate

For good growth the plants must have all the nutrients they need. If the soil is poor give them a liquid feed of compost tea, or liquid kelp, every 3 weeks.

Suitability
Drought tolerant, Tolerates light frost, Tolerates hard frost, Partial shade, Needs summer shade
Small Gardens?
Yes
Containers?
Yes

Chicory varieties that are grown for their greens are easily grown in containers. Just make sure to select a container 8 to 12 inches deep and 12 inches diameter. Line the bottom with gravel and then cover with potting soil and compost that have been mixed together.

Attracts beneficial insects?
Yes
Color
Dark green
Fruit Size
- "
Plant Height
8.0 - 12.0"
Plant Diameter
5.0 - 7.0"
Hardiness Zone
3-11
Disease Resistance
Taste Profile

Bright, green asparagus flavor.

Rotation Group
Leaves: Brassicas + Leafy Greens