How to grow Chicory in the UK
Cichorium intybus
Chicory (Cichorium intybus) is a vegetable that grows well in UK gardens. Force roots in dark for sweet chicons. 'Witloof' is the classic forcing variety. This guide covers when and how to sow Chicory, the soil and position it likes, watering and feeding, companion planting, and when to harvest.
When to sow & grow Chicory
Sowing and harvest window through the year (UK):
Jan Harvest | Feb Harvest | Mar Harvest | Apr | May Sow | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep Harvest | Oct Harvest | Nov | Dec |
Soil, position & care
- Soil
- Fertile, free-draining soil
- Soil pH
- 6.0–7.0
- Position
- Open, sunny site
- Sowing depth
- 1 cm
- Spacing
- Thin to 25 cm
- Sowing
- Sow Jun–Jul; forcing types lifted and blanched in winter for chicons
- Growing
- Keep weed-free and evenly watered; mulch to hold moisture
- Harvest & upkeep
- Harvest heads in autumn or force for chicons
- Watch for
- Slugs
Companion planting for Chicory
No specific companion notes for this plant.
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Chicory FAQs
When should I sow Chicory in the UK?
In the UK, sow Chicory in May. Sowing across these months gives the plant the right soil temperature and day length to establish well.
How much sun does Chicory need?
Chicory prefers full sun (6+ hrs direct).
When is Chicory ready to harvest?
Chicory is typically ready to harvest in January, February, March, September, October in the UK.
Is Chicory easy to grow?
Moderate. Force roots in dark for sweet chicons. 'Witloof' is the classic forcing variety.