Chicory Seeds

Cichorium Intybus
Regular price $6.99
Regular price $9.99 Sale price $6.99
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About

Chicory is an edible perennial plant grown for both its blue flowers and its useful leaves and roots. In USDA Zones 2–11, Chicory plant grows upright to about 36 inches tall, then sends up bright flowers from late summer into early fall. The blooms open in the morning and close at sunset. This heirloom Chicory seed has a long history in European gardens and now grows widely in North America, where gardeners use it in flower beds, pollinator patches, food plots, and kitchen gardens. 

Quick Facts

Life Cycle
Life Cycle Perennial
USDA Zones
USDA Zones 03–10
Light Requirements
Light Requirements Part sun; Full sun
Germination Time
Germination Time 10-14 days
Stratification
Stratification Not required
Spacing
Spacing 12-28 inches
Sowing Method
Sowing Method Direct Sow; Start Indoors
Soil
Soil Rich; Poor
Flowering Period
Flowering Period Summer; Fall
Water Requirements
Water Requirements Moderate (regular watering)
Maturity Time
Maturity Time 70-90 days
Growing Habit
Growing Habit Upright

How to Grow & Harvest

Sowing & Timing

Direct sow Chicory seeds outdoors in early spring. Plant each seed about 1/4 in. deep in loose soil, then keep the surface lightly moist while seedlings get started. Chicory flower seeds usually germinate in 10–14 days, and you do not need stratification or any special treatment. What matters more is steady moisture early on, because a dry crust on top of the soil can slow germination.

Soil, Watering & Fertilization

Give Chicory plant seeds a full-sun spot if you want stronger stems and better flowering. Choose loose ground so roots can grow cleaner and can be easier lifted later. Young flower plants & seeds need moderate moisture, while mature Chicory plant tolerate dry conditions and adapt well to rich or poor soil in open gardens. Avoid overwatering, as soggy soil causes root rot.

Growth & Harvest

Keep weeds down while plants are small, because early competition can slow growth more than people expect. Once Chicory settles in, it asks for less work — not because it stops growing, but because the root system starts doing the heavy lifting. 

FAQ

Are these heirloom Chicory seeds non-GMO?

Yes, KVITER Chicory seeds for sale are heirloom seed option for gardeners who prefer traditional, non-GMO growing. Buy Chicory seeds online at KVITER to complement your pollinator garden, and get edible harvests year after year.

What can I use Chicory for?

Chicory leaves are harvested young for fresh salads and are best used fresh, as drying or freezing removes flavor. Chicory roots can be harvested any time after four months of growth, before the ground freezes, and are widely used as Chicory root or Chicory tea. Roasted roots perennial plants are commonly used as a dandelion Chicory coffee alternative, valued for its smooth, balancing effect.

What plants grow well with Chicory?

Chicory is a great companion plant for carrots, spinach, radish, and legumes, like Cowpea, Pinkeye Pea, Sugar Snap Pea, Pigeon Pea, Edamame. Avoid planting Chicory too close to corn or cucumbers, as it may compete for nutrients in dense beds.