Variety traits

Storability — Witloof chicory

Cichorium intybus L. (Witloof Chicory Group)

The storability of this crop refers to the preservation of root crops after harvest, which is necessary for a successful forcing cycle. This indicator reflects the ability of the roots to overwinter without being affected by rot or losing turgor.

In the reference 5 varieties crop Witloof chicory, where this is mentioned in the description.

The life cycle of Witloof chicory requires the storage of roots during the winter period prior to forcing. The preservation of the roots is a critically important agronomic factor, as it is within them that the supply of nutrients necessary for the formation of dense and succulent heads (chicons) is concentrated.

To maintain the quality of the roots, a temperature close to 0 °C and a high relative humidity in the range of 85–98% are required. Violation of these conditions leads to loss of turgor, wilting, and the development of rot, which makes the roots unsuitable for obtaining marketable produce.

There are no standardized quantitative indicators of storability as a varietal trait for Witloof chicory. Evaluation is carried out indirectly through resistance to rot, weight loss, and visual characteristics of the roots, which are influenced by soil type, fertilization system, and harvest dates in the first year of cultivation.

General information about the subject — on the page Keeping quality.

Sources8

Varieties of Witloof chicory mentioned in the description

Selection based on the description text, not on official evaluation: these data are absent from registers. For specific variety details, please refer to its profile.