Chicory Salad Seeds - Radicchio, Sugarloaf and Chicory Varieties
Chicory salad seeds represent robust autumn and winter salads with a characteristically slightly bitter aroma. This versatile group of salads includes radicchio, sugarloaf chicory, Belgian endive and other chicory types that impress with their crisp leaves, strong colours and good tolerance to cooler temperatures.
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Chicory salads botanically belong to the common chicory Cichorium intybus and are closely related. Particularly well known are the compact red heads of radicchio, the elongated and well-storing heads of sugarloaf chicory and Belgian endive, which is produced by forcing the roots.
Typical for chicory salads is their slightly bitter to bittersweet flavour. Radicchio usually tastes stronger and more intense, while sugarloaf chicory is milder and slightly nutty. Many varieties are particularly well suited for cultivation in late summer and autumn and provide fresh salads well into the cooler season.
Because of their robust nature and good storage ability, chicory salads are a valuable addition to the vegetable garden. They add variety to autumn salads and, depending on the variety, can also be used cooked, grilled or braised.
Sowing and Growing Chicory Salads
Chicory salads are usually grown for autumn and winter harvest. Direct sowing generally takes place from June to July, as many varieties tend to bolt if sown too early. Starting plants in trays is possible from May or June, before the young plants are transplanted into the bed after a few weeks.
The seeds are sown shallowly and covered with about 0.5 to 1 cm of soil. A spacing of about 25 to 30 cm within the row and 30 to 40 cm between rows gives the plants enough room to develop strong rosettes or heads. A sunny to partially shaded location and humus rich, well drained soil promote even growth.
Consistent watering is important, as drought stress and strong fluctuations can disturb growth and increase bitterness. Shortly before harvest, some varieties can be blanched by loosely tying the outer leaves together, which keeps the heart milder and more tender.
Radicchio, Sugarloaf Chicory and Belgian Endive in the Garden
Chicory salads bring structure, colour and pleasantly bitter flavours to the late vegetable garden. Radicchio forms compact red heads with white veins and a strong bitter taste. Sugarloaf chicory grows elongated, is usually milder and stores well. Belgian endive occupies a special place within the chicory group, as the root is first cultivated and later forced to produce a pale shoot.
Many chicory salads are more robust than classic summer lettuces and are particularly well suited to the cooler season. In garden beds, raised beds or under fleece, fresh and vitamin rich leaves can still be harvested in autumn and early winter.
FAQ about Chicory Salads
When should chicory salads be sown?
Chicory salads are usually sown from June or July. This later sowing is important so that the plants form strong heads and do not bolt too early.
What is the difference between radicchio, sugarloaf chicory and Belgian endive?
Radicchio usually forms red, compact heads with a strong flavour. Sugarloaf chicory grows elongated and tastes milder. Belgian endive is grown from the root and later forced to produce a pale shoot.
Why does chicory salad taste bitter?
The typical bitter taste is characteristic of this salad group and typical of chicories. It can be slightly reduced through consistent watering, harvesting at the right time and optional blanching.
