How to Grow and Care for Chicory

Chicory (Cichorium intybus) is a hardy perennial plant known for its striking blue flowers and deep taproot. It has been grown for centuries, not only for its edible leaves but also for its root, which can be roasted and used as a coffee substitute or additive. Growing and caring for chicory requires a few specific steps, but with the right approach, it can thrive in your garden.

1. Choosing the Right Location

Chicory is a sun-loving plant that requires full sunlight to grow well. Choose a location in your garden that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, but it prefers well-drained, slightly alkaline soil. If your soil is too acidic, you can amend it with lime to raise the pH.

Chicory also benefits from slightly dry conditions once established. Avoid areas where water tends to pool, as this can cause the roots to rot.

2. Preparing the Soil

To prepare the soil for chicory, start by removing any weeds and debris from the planting area. Chicory prefers soil that is loose and well-drained. You can improve heavy or compacted soil by adding organic matter like compost or well-rotted manure.

If your soil is clay-heavy, consider growing chicory in raised beds to ensure proper drainage. A pH level of 6.0 to 7.5 is ideal, so if your soil is more acidic, add lime to balance it.

3. Sowing Chicory Seeds

Chicory is typically grown from seed, which can be sown directly into the ground or started indoors. If you’re sowing outdoors, wait until the soil temperature reaches at least 60°F (15°C) in the spring, which is ideal for germination. You can plant chicory seeds in early spring or fall, depending on your climate.

To sow chicory seeds:

• Prepare a shallow seedbed by loosening the soil to a depth of 1 inch (2.5 cm).

• Scatter the seeds evenly over the soil, then cover them with a light layer of soil or compost.

• Water gently to keep the soil moist, but not soggy, until the seeds germinate, which usually takes 7-14 days.

For those starting seeds indoors, plant them in pots about 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost date. Transplant the seedlings outdoors once the danger of frost has passed.

4. Thinning and Spacing

Once your chicory seedlings are established, thin them out to ensure they have enough space to grow. The plants should be spaced about 12 to 18 inches (30 to 45 cm) apart. This will give each plant room for its taproot to develop fully and ensure the foliage has plenty of air circulation.

If you’re growing chicory for its roots, ensure the spacing allows the plant to grow deep and large roots. If you’re growing it for its leaves, slightly closer spacing is acceptable.

5. Watering

Chicory is relatively drought-tolerant once established, but it still requires regular watering, especially during dry spells. Water deeply at the base of the plant to encourage the roots to grow deep into the soil. Avoid overhead watering, which can cause fungal issues.

In the early stages of growth, keep the soil consistently moist until the plants are established. Afterward, you can water less frequently, allowing the soil to dry out a bit between waterings. However, during hot, dry weather, be sure to water deeply to prevent the plant from wilting.

6. Fertilizing

Chicory is not a heavy feeder, but it will benefit from a light application of fertilizer. If you’ve amended the soil with compost before planting, additional fertilizer may not be necessary. However, if your soil is poor or you notice yellowing leaves, you can apply a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer.

A slow-release granular fertilizer or organic options like fish emulsion or compost tea can be applied in early spring, just as the plants begin to grow. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can result in excessive foliage growth at the expense of root development.

7. Maintaining the Plant

Chicory is relatively low-maintenance, but there are a few care tips to ensure healthy growth.

• Mulching: Mulch around the base of the plants to help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and keep the soil temperature stable. Organic mulches such as straw, grass clippings, or shredded leaves work well.

• Weeding: Keep the area around chicory plants weed-free, especially when they’re young. Weeds can compete for nutrients and water, hindering growth.

• Pruning: If you’re growing chicory for its leaves, you can regularly harvest the outer leaves. Be sure to leave the central growing point intact so the plant can continue to produce new leaves.

• Pest and Disease Control: While chicory is generally resistant to pests, it can occasionally attract aphids or caterpillars. Regularly inspect the leaves for signs of pests and treat them with an organic insecticidal soap if necessary. Chicory can also be susceptible to fungal diseases like powdery mildew if grown in overly humid conditions, so ensure the plants have good air circulation and avoid watering overhead.

8. Harvesting Chicory

The timing of your harvest depends on the part of the plant you’re using:

• For leaves: Chicory leaves can be harvested throughout the growing season. The young, tender leaves are best for salads, while older leaves can be used for cooking or as a coffee substitute. To harvest, simply cut or pinch off the outer leaves, leaving the central growing point intact.

• For roots: If you’re growing chicory for its root, allow the plants to grow for about 4-6 months after sowing. When the roots are large and firm, they can be dug up in late fall or early winter before the first frost. The roots can be cleaned, peeled, and roasted for use as a coffee substitute or ground into powder.

9. Overwintering Chicory

Chicory is a hardy plant that can survive mild winters, especially if you are growing it as a perennial. In colder regions, it may die back in the winter, but the roots will survive and can regenerate the following spring.

To help chicory survive the winter:

• Mulch heavily around the base of the plants to protect the roots from freezing.

• In regions with harsh winters, consider digging up the roots in the fall and storing them in a cool, dry place until you’re ready to replant in the spring.

10. Propagation

Chicory can be propagated from seeds, but it can also spread by its roots, especially in the case of perennial types. If you want to propagate your chicory plants, simply dig up a section of the root, cut it into pieces with at least one eye (or bud) per piece, and replant these sections.

Conclusion

Chicory is an excellent addition to any garden, offering both ornamental beauty and practical uses. By providing the right growing conditions, proper care, and occasional harvesting, you can enjoy a healthy and productive chicory plant for years to come. Whether you’re growing it for its leaves, its roots, or as a decorative perennial, chicory is a rewarding plant to cultivate.