How to Grow Chicory

A cool-season leafy for the home garden across the warmer US.

Chicory is a rewarding cool-season crop for backyard growers.

When to plant

Chicory is a cool-season crop. In the South and Southwest, plant in fall through winter when the heat eases. See your region on the chicory page for exact timing.

Varieties

• Italiko Rosso, Cutting chicory for greens (Johnny's Selected Seeds)

How to grow it

• Sun & soil: full sun, rich well-drained soil with even moisture.
• Spacing: about 30 cm (12 in) between plants.
• Sowing: barely cover the seed.
• Water: roughly 4 L per plant every 2 days in hot weather.

Pests & problems

Watch for Aphids and Slugs. In humid regions, Leaf spot can appear, so space for airflow and water at the roots in the morning.

Harvest

Chicory is usually ready to harvest in about 3 months. Pick regularly to keep plants productive.

When to plant in your region

Pick your region to see exactly when to plant chicory where you garden.

See also: Chicory in the plant library →

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