Growing Chicory, also Witloof, Belgian endive
Cichorium intybus : Asteraceae / the daisy family
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | 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.
- 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.
Prepare to store for forcing at around 4 - 5 months. The second stage, blanching will take 8 - 12 weeks.
To Blanch: Lift the plants and cut off the leaves about 5 cm (2 in) above the roots. Shorten the roots to about 20 - 25cm (8 - 10 in) and replant close together (3 - 5 cm apart)in a pot filled with loose soil. Keep damp but not soggy.
Cover to exclude light and keep out of the sunlight, but not below 10 °C (50 °F)
Exclude light until you use the witloof, if it goes green it will be bitter.
Culinary hints - cooking and eating Chicory
Good in salads.
Grill lightly with butter.
Bake with ham and cheese.
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