Whole plant
Overall shape, height, branching and growth habit.
Leafy Greens
Witloof Chicory growing guide
Chicory grown first for roots, then forced in darkness to make pale tight chicons. A classic European winter crop.
Photo reference
Use this real-world photo as the main plant reference, then compare it with the botanical drawings below for leaf, flower and harvest details.
5-14 daysGermination
120-180 daysHarvest
25 cmSpacing
0.5 cmSow depth
FullSun
HardyFrost
2 cm/weekWater
6-7.5pH
Planting calendar by climate
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| Climate | Sow | Transplant / Plant | Harvest |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tropical | Apr - Aug | Apr - Aug | Jun - Oct |
| Subtropical | Mar - Aug | Mar - Aug | Jun - Nov |
| Mediterranean | Mar - Aug | Mar - Aug | Jun - Nov |
| Temperate | Feb - Apr | Apr - May | Aug - Nov |
| Cool | Mar - May | May - Jun | Sep - Nov |
| Arid | Mar - May | Mar - May | Jun - Sep |
Botanical reference
Compare the whole plant first, then check the leaf, flower and harvest detail to identify what Witloof Chicory should look like as it grows.
Leaf detail
Leaf shape, edges, colour and vein pattern.
Flower detail
Flower colour, structure and where blooms appear.
Harvest / detail
Fruit, root, seed, pod or the strongest identifying feature.
Cooking and eating ideas
A quick garden-to-table guide for using Witloof Chicory after harvest.
Raw / fresh
Excellent raw when young and tender; use in salads, wraps, bowls, or as a fresh garnish.
Cooked
Wilt, steam, stir-fry, braise, add to soups, or fold into omelettes and savoury bakes.
Store / preserve
Use fresh, pickle, freeze, dry, or preserve depending on the edible part.
Try: Fresh salad, Stir-fry, Soup greens, Wilted side.
Good companions
Carrot, Lettuce, Radish
Avoid near
No avoid list yet.
Growing note
Lift roots after the growing season and force in darkness for pale chicons.
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