Chicory Jupiter plants - Cichorium intybus

The chicory Jupiter is an improved variety that will be harvested in summer and early autumn (August to mid-October). This biennial vegetable plant, measuring 30 cm (12in), produces a beautiful elongated pear-shaped head, which is uniform and firm, with a white heart that has a pleasant slightly sweet flavour, almost without bitterness. Productive and uniform, this variety also has good resistance to bolting. The heart is consumed raw in salads, cooked like spinach, or braised like endives...

The wild chicory (Cichorium intybus), was cultivated by the Greeks and Romans and is native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa. It should not be confused with curly endive and escarole, which appeared in France in the 14th century. In the Middle Ages, it was considered a magical plant.

Chicory leaves can be consumed raw in salads or as a garnish for dishes, or cooked in juice, gratin, cream, braised, or in béchamel sauce. Chicory also has depurative and laxative properties.

Chicory requires a supply of well-decomposed compost (3 kg/m²). Foliar fertilization with lithothamnium powder every 15 days can also be done.

Plant this chicory in a rich and fresh but well-drained soil, in a sunny or semi-shaded position. They are relatively resistant to cold, but it is strongly recommended to protect them from frost.

Harvest: Chicory can be harvested as needed.

Storage: It can be stored for a few days in a cool place after harvesting.

Gardener's tip: Regular hoeing and weeding, as well as mulching, are recommended in case of drought.

Note: Please note that our young plug plants are professional products reserved for experienced gardeners: upon receipt, transplant and store them in a sheltered place (veranda, greenhouse, cold frame...) at a temperature above 14°C (57.2°F) for a few weeks before placing them outdoors once the risk of frost has been definitively eliminated.