Growing Chicory, also Witloof, Belgian endive

Cichorium intybus : Asteraceae / the daisy family

Jan F M A M J J A S O N Dec
                  P P  

(Best months for growing Chicory in New Zealand - cool/mountain regions)

  • P = Sow seed
  • Sow in garden. Sow seed at a depth approximately three times the diameter of the seed. Best planted at soil temperatures between 10°C and 20°C. (Show °F/in)
  • Space plants: 25 - 30 cm apart
  • Harvest in 16-24 weeks. Will need forcing before final harvest.
  • Compatible with (can grow beside): Carrots, onions, Florence fennel, tomatoes.

Your comments and tips

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27 Aug 13, (Australia - cool/mountain climate)
where can I buy witloof in gauteng
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26 Aug 13, Bill Van Dipten (South Africa - Summer rainfall climate)
where can I buy Brussels Endive (aka Witloof) seeds for planting in my garden in Cape Town ...so far no success with my search
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07 May 13, Graeme harte (Australia - sub-tropical climate)
G'day catharina ! I'm growing witloof for the first time this year high in the mountains west of mackay QLD with great results ! I got my seeds from Eden seeds ' hope this helps mate ' regard Graeme
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15 Apr 13, marian seegers (New Zealand - cool/mountain climate)
Please have you any idea where I can buy witloof here in New Zealand (south Island)?
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22 Jan 13, Chris Czarnik (Australia - sub-tropical climate)
When is the best time to plant Witloof and, Chicory in Brisbane. Thank you
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22 Jan 13, (Australia - arid climate)
On lineThe Italian Gardener
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15 Dec 12, Carol (Australia - sub-tropical climate)
How about roots
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12 Dec 12, Reinout (South Africa - Summer rainfall climate)
Hi Piero, I brought some witlof seeds from holland two years back. Don't mind sharing. I'm in Wesdene, JHB.
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04 Oct 12, Catharina Claessens (Australia - temperate climate)
I am from belgium and this is one of the very few things i miss from that cold country! In my 5years here i've only found it once, just a random addition to the regular veggies at woolies one week, but sadly never again. Does anyone know where i could buy over here (or seeds and try and grow it i suppose, although thats a lot of hassle in this case i reckon)? And my suggestion is definitely in the oven with ham and lots of cheese ;)
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04 Oct 12, Steve (Australia - temperate climate)
Our local Coles had it for the last 3 months, but I think it's out of season now. Maybe try them instead of Woolies? Eden Seeds had seed
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Showing 51 - 60 of 65 comments
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It appears your 'red lettuce' is aactually Radicchio which has a hot peppery taste. It is generally loved by Italians and there are many recipes on the internet for its use. If it is grown fast with less light it is likely to be les bitter. Sorry I can't help you more. Trust this helps.

- John

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