Radichetta Chicory (Heirloom 52 Days)

Also known as Catalogna, an Italian heirloom. The elongated, lobed leaves of this loose-leaf lettuce come equipped with thick, crunchy, flavorful ribs. The Radichetta Chicory has a flavor and texture that are almost halfway between lettuce and chicory so it can be eaten fresh or cooked. Not at all bitter, it grows fast, is cold tolerant, and slow to bolt. 

100 seeds

PLANTING

Cichorium intybus

Germination: 4-10 days

Germination Temperature: Optimum soil temperatures 60-70ºF. Soil temperatures above 75 ºF inhibit germination.

Seed Sowing Depth: ¼ inch deep

Starting Indoors:  Start 3-4 weeks before planting outside. Sow 2-3 seeds per cell/pot, thinning to one per cell/pot. Provide 60-70ºF soil temperatures. Transplant out, 8-12” apart in rows 12” apart.

Sowing Outdoors: Spring when the soil temperature reaches at least 50ºF. Sow 1” apart, thin to 6-12”, depending on the size of lettuce you want, baby to full heads. Keep soil moist during germination. Sow every 2-3 weeks for a longer harvest period. 

How much does a packet plant: 25-40 foot single row  

Harvest: Cut whole heads, full-sized or baby at the base, or snip off individual leaves.  

Tips: The Radichetta Chicory should be planted in fertile, well-drained soil. Amend with compost before planting if needed. Provide adequate, even moisture for the best growth. Mulching helps retain moisture.