Chicory - Cultivation
Chicory is a biennial plant that thrives in cool climates and grows best in full sun but can also survive in partial sun. Chicory requires deep, well-draining soil that has a high amount of nutrients and is rich in organic matter. It needs to be watered weekly, and the soil needs to stay moist to avoid drought stress on the roots. Mulching will also help keep moisture in the soil and weeds from forming. Chicory needs to be fertilized about a month after transplanting with nitrogen-based fertilizer to replenish lost nutrients in the soil. It can be grown from seed indoors in the spring 3-4 weeks before the last frost and then transplanted outside. Chicory can also be grown again in the fall and is typically harvested 8-10 weeks after planting.