Cultivation

Chicory forcing

Cichorium intybus L.

The use of protected cultivation for witloof chicory consists of forcing marketable heads from root crops grown in open fields.

In the reference 10 varieties crop Chicory, where this is mentioned in the description.

The technology of protected cultivation for chicory differs fundamentally from other vegetable production due to the absence of a photosynthesis stage. The process is based on the utilization of nutrients accumulated in the root crops during the growing season. The main objective is to create conditions of total darkness to prevent the leaves from turning green and developing bitterness.

Vermiculite, peat, sand, or hydroponics are used as substrates during forcing, serving only to anchor the roots and retain moisture. The temperature regime is maintained in the range of 10–18°C, as exceeding these values leads to the formation of poor-quality, loose heads. The entire cycle takes 3–4 weeks, after which the root crops are disposed of.

General information about the subject — on the page Protected cultivation.

Sources8

Varieties of 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.