How to Grow Root Chicory Sativum

Though wild growing chicory roots can be used for coffee, you'll get sweeter results with the sativum plant.

The roots of the sativum type of chicory plant are grown to be roasted, ground and brewed. The resulting beverage is considered an acceptable coffee substitute. Alternatively, ground chicory can be added to regular coffee, creating a tasty blend. Coffee with chicory root is naturally sweeter and has what many consider a more pleasant "mouthfeel," being a somewhat thicker brew. Planted in the early spring and harvested in the late fall, chicory plants are cold tolerant and hardy; they can be grown almost anywhere within the continental United States.

Things You'll Need

• Shovel
• Compost, well-rotted manure or shredded peat moss

Instructions

1. Select a site that will allow the plants to receive sunlight for six to eight hours per day. Two to three weeks before the final frost is expected, turn over the soil at the selected site with a small shovel, digging down approximately 8 to 10 inches.

2. Modify the soil at the planting site by adding compost, well-rotted manure or shredded peat moss. For every two shovelfuls of dirt, add one shovelful of organic material. Mix until the materials are well blended. According to information published by the Washington State University Extension, chicory seeds that have been planted in soil that is rich in organic matter tends to develop substantial roots.

3. Scatter the seeds evenly over the amended soil and cover them lightly with loose dirt, burying the seeds 1 inch deep.

4. Sprinkle water over the newly planted seeds until the surrounding soil is evenly damp, but not soggy. Decant the water slowly to prevent accidentally dislodging the seeds. Check the soil each day, adding water as needed to maintain a moist environment until the seeds sprout. Once sprouts emerge, adjust the schedule, watering every other day until the seedlings develop their second set of leaves. Thereafter, water the plants one to two times a week, depending on the local weather.

5. Thin the sprouts when they have grown four leaves, allowing the tallest and most robust plants to remain while removing the rest. Tug gently on the stems of the seedlings, pulling them from the soil, creating 12 to 18 inches of space between plants.

6. Harvest sativum chicory roots approximately 120 days after planting. Dig the roots up with a small shovel and trim off the greenery, leaving about 1 inch of foliage at the top. Wash the roots to remove any dirt and store them in the refrigerator for up to 6 weeks.

Tips & Warnings

• Chicory will bolt in overly warm weather, so provide ample shade for your plants during periods of extreme heat.

References

• Utah State University: Chicory in the Garden
• Washington State University Plant of the Month: Chicory
• University of Illinois: Plant Palette: Chicory