Seeds – Wild chicory

Wild chicory ( Cichorium intybus ) is a perennial plant growing to 30120 cm tall, recognizable by its sky-blue flowers that bloom from July to October. It is valued for its edible young leaves and its roots, which are used as a coffee substitute.

2. Sowing

• Difficulty level : Easy
• Type of sowing : Direct in open ground in spring or autumn
• Sowing technique : Sow the seeds at a depth of 0.5 cm, spacing them 20 to 30 cm apart
• Sowing depth : 0.5 cm
• Germination days : 10 to 14 days
• Germination temperature : 15 to 20C

3. Culture

• Ease of cultivation : Easy
• Growing season : Spring to fall
• Transplanting : Not necessary, prefers direct sowing
• Plant spacing : 20 to 30 cm between plants
• Hardiness Zone : 3 to 9
• Light : Full sun to partial shade
• Soil Type : Well-drained soils, tolerates a variety of conditions
• Soil pH : Neutral to slightly alkaline
• Soil Moisture : Moderate, drought tolerant once established
• Soil fertility : Not very demanding
• Time before harvest : 6 to 8 weeks for leaves
• Watering : Regular, especially during dry periods
• Other characteristics : Attracts pollinators, can become invasive if not controlled

4. Use

The young leaves can be eaten in salads or cooked. The roots, once roasted, are used as a coffee substitute.

5. Companionship

• Friendly plants : Carrots, lettuce, onions
• Enemy plants : None known

This hardy plant is well adapted to Quebec’s climates and is an excellent choice for gardeners wishing to diversify their vegetable garden with a versatile and resistant species.