How to Grow Chicory in Idaho

Chicory (Cichorium intybus) is a perennial herbaceous plant that thrives in various climates, making it an excellent addition to gardens in Idaho. Known for its vibrant blue flowers and deep taproot, chicory offers both culinary and health benefits. Whether you aim to use chicory as a coffee substitute, salad green, or simply for its ornamental value, learning how to grow this resilient plant in Idaho is essential. This guide will walk you through the steps of successfully cultivating chicory in Idaho’s unique climate.

Understanding Chicory

Before plunging into the growing process, it’s vital to understand what chicory is. Belonging to the dandelion family, chicory can be recognized by its striking blue flowers and jagged leaves. It’s often used in salads or cooked as a green, and the roots can be roasted and ground to create a caffeine-free coffee alternative. Chicory is well-suited for areas with well-drained soil and can tolerate various soil types.

Benefits of Growing Chicory

1. Culinary Uses: Chicory leaves can be eaten raw or cooked, and roasted roots provide a rich, coffee-like beverage.
2. Nutritional Value: Chicory is high in vitamins A, C, and K, along with essential minerals like calcium and potassium.
3. Soil Improvement: The deep taproots of chicory help break up compacted soil, improving overall soil structure.
4. Attracts Pollinators: The beautiful blue flowers attract bees and other pollinators, enhancing biodiversity in your garden.

Choosing the Right Variety

There are two primary types of chicory you can grow: leaf chicory and root chicory.

• Leaf Chicory: Common varieties include ‘Catalogna’ (endive-like) and ‘Radicchio’ (bitter yet flavorful). These are best for salads or cooking.
• Root Chicory: Varieties such as ‘Witloof’ are prized for their edible roots which can be roasted for coffee.

Selecting the right variety based on your purpose will set the foundation for successful growth.

Preparing the Soil

Chicory prefers well-drained soil that retains some moisture but does not become overly saturated. Here’s how to prepare your soil:

Soil Testing

1. Test pH Levels: Ideal pH levels for chicory range from 6.0 to 7.0. You can test your soil using DIY kits available at garden centers.
2. Amend Soil: If your soil is too acidic or alkaline, consider adding lime to raise pH or sulfur to lower it. Incorporating organic matter like compost will improve nutrient content and drainage.

Tilling

Loosen the top 12 inches of soil using a garden fork or tiller. This helps aerate the soil and provides room for root growth.

Planting Chicory

Chicory can be grown from seeds or transplants. Here’s how to get started with both methods:

Seed Planting

1. Timing: In Idaho, sow seeds directly into the garden in early spring (April) or late summer (August) for a fall harvest.
2. Spacing: Sow seeds about 1/4 inch deep, with 12-18 inches between rows. Thin seedlings to allow 6-12 inches between plants once they have a few true leaves.
3. Watering: Water gently after sowing to settle the seeds into the soil but avoid overwatering.

Transplanting

If starting indoors:
1. Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date.
2. Transplant seedlings outdoors when they are about 4-6 inches tall.

Cultivating Chicory

Once planted, chicory requires some maintenance:

Watering

Chicory is drought-tolerant but performs best with regular watering during dry spells. Aim for about an inch of water per week—more during particularly hot periods.

Fertilizing

While chicory doesn’t require heavy fertilization, applying a balanced fertilizer at planting and again mid-season can enhance growth. Organic fertilizers such as fish emulsion or compost tea work well.

Weeding

Regularly check for weeds around your chicory plants. Hand-pulling or using mulch can suppress weed growth without harming your plants.

Pest Management

Chicory tends to be resistant to many pests; however, it’s not entirely immune:

1. Aphids: Keep an eye out for aphids; if they appear, spray them off with water or apply neem oil as needed.
2. Slugs: In moist conditions, slugs may attack young plants; consider placing barriers or using organic slug bait.
3. Fleabeetles & Caterpillars: Monitor for damage and remove pests by hand if needed.

Harvesting Chicory

The timing of your harvest will depend on your growing method:

Leaf Harvesting

1. Timing: For leaf chicories, harvest when leaves are young and tender—usually about 30-60 days after planting.
2. Method: Cut outer leaves first while allowing inner leaves to continue growing.

Root Harvesting

1. Timing: For root chicories like ‘Witloof’, harvest after about 90 days in fall before frost sets in.
2. Method: Dig up roots carefully to avoid breaking them; wash them thoroughly before use.

Storing Chicory

To ensure maximum freshness:
– Leaves should be stored in the refrigerator wrapped in damp paper towels within a plastic bag for up to a week.
– Roots can be kept cool and dark if not using immediately; they should be harvested just before cooking or roasting.

Conclusion

Growing chicory in Idaho not only enriches your garden but also provides delicious culinary options and nutritional benefits. With suitable preparation, planting techniques, and maintenance routines tailored to Idaho’s climate conditions, you can enjoy healthy yields of this versatile plant year-round. Embrace the beauty of chicory’s blue flowers while reaping its many advantages—both culinary and ecological—in your Idaho garden! Happy gardening!