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Cichorium intybus
Cichorium intybus
Cichorium intybus
Cichorium intybus

Cichorium intybus

TAXONOMY

FamilyAsteraceae
GenusCichorium
Zone4

ABOUT

Cichorium intybus, commonly known as chicory, is a perennial herbaceous plant in the family Asteraceae. It is native to Europe but has spread to many temperate regions worldwide. Chicory is known for its bright blue flowers and is often found in fields and along roadsides. It has a dormancy period during the winter months.

ALSO KNOWN AS

Chicory
Rock Hosta
Cichorium balearicum
Cichorium byzantinum
Cichorium caeruleum
Cichorium callosum
Cichorium casnia
Cichorium cicorea
Cichorium commune
Cichorium cosnia
Cichorium divaricatum
Cichorium glabratum
Cichorium glaucum
Cichorium hirsutum
Cichorium illyricum
Cichorium intybus f. alba
Cichorium intybus f. crispum
Cichorium intybus f. intybus
Cichorium intybus f. rubicunda
Cichorium intybus f. sativum
Cichorium intybus f. sylvestre
Cichorium intybus subsp. balearica
Cichorium intybus subsp. foliosum
Cichorium intybus subsp. glabratum
Cichorium intybus subsp. glaucum
Cichorium intybus subsp. illyricum
Cichorium intybus subsp. intybus
Cichorium intybus subsp. sativum
Cichorium intybus subsp. sylvestre
Cichorium intybus var. callosum
Cichorium intybus var. eglandulosum
Cichorium intybus var. foliosum
Cichorium intybus var. glabratum
Cichorium intybus var. glabrum
Cichorium intybus var. intybus
Cichorium intybus var. longipes
Cichorium intybus var. radicosum
Cichorium intybus var. sativum
Cichorium officinale
Cichorium perenne
Cichorium rigidum
Cichorium sylvestre
Hieracium cichorium

OVERVIEW

WaterMoist
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature20° C
Humidity60%
GDD1,275
Dormancy3 Months
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar

DETAILS

Care Instructions
Chicory requires bright, direct sunlight for optimal growth and thrives in moderate temperatures. It prefers moderate humidity levels and should be watered when the soil partially dries out. Regular pruning helps maintain its shape and encourages new growth.
Harvest
Cichorium intybus, commonly known as chicory, is typically ready for harvest about 85 days after planting. Harvesting should be done when the leaves are tender and before the plant starts to flower. For root harvest, it is best to wait until late fall when the roots have reached their maximum size. To harvest, carefully dig around the plant to avoid damaging the roots, and then lift the plant from the soil. Leaves can be cut with a sharp knife or scissors. Ensure that the harvested parts are cleaned thoroughly to remove any soil or debris.
Soil
Chicory prefers well-draining loamy soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Ensure the soil has good drainage to prevent waterlogging, which can harm the plant.
Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with a nutrient composition of 5-10-10. Fertilize the plant during the growing season to support its development. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to nutrient imbalances.
Repotting
Repot chicory when it outgrows its current container or when the soil becomes compacted. Choose a slightly larger pot with good drainage and fresh loamy soil. Repotting is best done in early spring before the growing season begins.
Propagation
Chicory can be propagated by seeds or root cuttings. Sow seeds in early spring or take root cuttings in late winter. Ensure the soil is moist and place the cuttings in a bright location until they establish roots.
Pruning
Prune chicory regularly to remove dead or damaged leaves and to maintain its shape. Pruning also encourages new growth and helps prevent the plant from becoming too leggy.
Toxicity
Chicory is not toxic to pets or humans. However, some individuals may experience mild digestive discomfort if consumed in large quantities.
Additional
Chicory has a long history of use as a coffee substitute and in traditional medicine. Its roots can be roasted and ground to make a caffeine-free coffee alternative. The leaves are also edible and can be used in salads.
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How To Grow Cichorium intybus | EarthOne