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.
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