🥬 Chicory 'Witloof'

Sowing window (UK)	May to June
Minimum soil temperature	7°C at seed depth
Sowing depth	1 cm
Spacing	20 cm apart
Days to germination	10 days
Days to harvest	180 days
Sowing method	Direct sow outdoors
Frost hardy	Yes
Sun	full-sun
Watering	moderate
Plant family	Asteraceae

When should I sow Chicory 'Witloof' in the UK?

In the UK, sow Chicory 'Witloof' from May to June. It is normally sown direct outdoors. Wait until the soil has reached 7°C at seed depth rather than going by the calendar - chicory will sit and rot in cold ground.

What soil temperature does Chicory 'Witloof' need to germinate?

Chicory 'Witloof' needs a minimum soil temperature of 7°C at seed depth to germinate reliably. Below that, germination is slow and patchy, and seed is more likely to rot than sprout. Measure at around 5cm down, in the morning, rather than trusting air temperature.

How deep and how far apart should I sow Chicory 'Witloof'?

For Chicory 'Witloof', sow it 1cm deep and space plants 20cm apart.

How long does Chicory 'Witloof' take to grow?

Chicory 'Witloof' takes roughly 180 days from sowing to harvest. Seed usually germinates in about 10 days.

Is Chicory 'Witloof' frost hardy?

Yes. Chicory 'Witloof' is frost hardy and will stand through UK frosts, so it can be left out over winter in most of the country.

Sowing data cross-checked against RHS growing guides and UK seed-merchant catalogues. Soil temperatures are the minimum for reliable germination, measured at seed depth.