‘Pissenlit’ chicory

Cichorium intybus

Product code : WESTO-0316

‘Pissenlit’ chicory is a chicory cultivar selected for home food or ornamental gardens. It prefers sun to partial shade and light, fertile, moist, well-drained soil. Sow in spring and late summer for cool-season harvests. Sow about 3 mm deep. Allow 20 to 25 cm between plants. Water regularly to reduce excessive bitterness and bolting. For best results, label the row and observe the plants regularly as conditions change through the season. Adjust watering to rainfall, wind, container size, and the actual moisture at soil level. Good air circulation and adequate spacing help foliage dry normally after rain or irrigation. Keep the growing area free of weeds that compete for light, moisture, and nutrients. Use clean tools for harvest and remove damaged plant material when it appears.
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Detailed plant guide
Advice adapted to Canada
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Quantity
1500 seeds
Exposure
Sun to partial shade
Life cycle
Annual or biennial depending on type

Discover the plant

Common nameChicory
FamilyAsteraceae
GenusCichorium
Speciesintybus
Typechicory
Botanical nameCichorium intybus
Heirloom varietyYes

‘Pissenlit’ chicory (Cichorium intybus) ‘Pissenlit’ chicory is distinguished by firm foliage with a gently bitter flavour. It is a clearly identified chicory cultivar for gardeners who value dependable sowing information and a well-labelled crop. Its botanical identity is Cichorium intybus. Plan this variety for a home vegetable plot, raised bed, or suitable container, according to its mature size and growing requirements. For best results, label the row and observe the plants regularly as conditions change through the season. Adjust watering to rainfall, wind, container size, and the actual moisture at soil level. Good air circulation and adequate spacing help foliage dry normally after rain or irrigation.

Sow in spring and late summer for cool-season harvests. Sow about 3 mm deep. Keep the seedbed evenly moist through emergence. Allow 20 to 25 cm between plants. Provide sun to partial shade and avoid standing water. A germination temperature of 16 to 20°C is appropriate for this crop. Thin crowded seedlings early and harden indoor-started plants gradually before transplanting. For best results, label the row and observe the plants regularly as conditions change through the season. Adjust watering to rainfall, wind, container size, and the actual moisture at soil level. Good air circulation and adequate spacing help foliage dry normally after rain or irrigation.

‘Pissenlit’ chicory is grown for the edible portions normally harvested from this type of crop. Pick only healthy produce at the appropriate stage, handle it carefully, and rinse it according to the intended preparation. Water regularly to reduce excessive bitterness and bolting. Keep the planting accessible for observation, watering, harvest, or grooming. Use clean tools, remove damaged material, and store unused seed in a cool, dry, dark location. Choose compatible neighbouring plants and maintain enough room for air circulation. For best results, label the row and observe the plants regularly as conditions change through the season. Adjust watering to rainfall, wind, container size, and the actual moisture at soil level.

Illustration associée à Chicorée sauvage, dans la gamme Weston. Cette chicorée de type sauvage fournit des feuilles vertes dressées au goût affirmé, à cueillir jeunes pour une texture plus tendre. Le visuel permet de repérer la référence et l’aspect présenté pour cette sélection. Les dimensions et les couleurs observées au jardin dépendent du stade de croissance et des conditions de culture.

Sowing guide

It all startswith a seed.

Sowing depth

3 mm

Sowing period

Sow in spring and late summer for cool-season harvests

Propagation

Seed

Growing method

Prepare a clean seedbed or containers with light, fertile, moist, well-drained soil. Sow in spring and late summer for cool-season harvests. Sow about 3 mm deep unless the packet gives a more specific direction. Use the following spacing as the crop develops: 20 to 25 cm between plants. Keep the medium evenly moist during emergence without leaving it saturated. Provide sun to partial shade and good air movement. Thin crowded seedlings early so the remaining plants develop without unnecessary competition. Harden indoor-started plants gradually before transplanting them outdoors after the appropriate frost date. Water regularly to reduce excessive bitterness and bolting. For best results, label the row and observe the plants regularly as conditions change through the season. Adjust watering to rainfall, wind, container size, and the actual moisture at soil level. Good air circulation and adequate spacing help foliage dry normally after rain or irrigation. Keep the growing area free of weeds that compete for light, moisture, and nutrients. Use clean tools for harvest and remove damaged plant material when it appears. Always follow the packet information when a variety-specific direction differs from general guidance. A simple garden label makes the cultivar easy to identify from sowing through harvest or flowering. Check young plants frequently because small moisture or pest problems are easier to address early.

Soil and care

The right care,at the right time.

Watering

Water regularly to reduce excessive bitterness and bolting. Check moisture at soil level instead of watering only by schedule. Water gently during germination so seeds are not displaced, then direct irrigation toward the root zone. Avoid standing water and adjust frequency after rain. For best results, label the row and observe the plants regularly as conditions change through the season. Adjust watering to rainfall, wind, container size, and the actual moisture at soil level.

Soil type

‘Pissenlit’ chicory performs best in light, fertile, moist, well-drained soil. Loosen compacted ground before sowing and remove large stones or persistent weeds. Mature compost may improve poor soil, but avoid creating a heavy or waterlogged seedbed. For best results, label the row and observe the plants regularly as conditions change through the season. Adjust watering to rainfall, wind, container size, and the actual moisture at soil level. Good air circulation and adequate spacing help foliage dry normally after rain or irrigation. Keep the growing area free of weeds that compete for light, moisture, and nutrients.

Fertilization

Prepare the soil with mature compost when fertility is low. A light, balanced fertilizer may be used according to its label, but excessive feeding can cause weak or unbalanced growth. Observe leaf colour and plant development before adding more nutrients. Water after any application. For best results, label the row and observe the plants regularly as conditions change through the season. Adjust watering to rainfall, wind, container size, and the actual moisture at soil level.

Moisture

Regular, with no standing water

Seasonal care

At sowing time, prepare light, fertile, moist, well-drained soil and follow this timing: Sow in spring and late summer for cool-season harvests. Keep the surface moist until emergence, label the row, and thin seedlings according to the recommended spacing. During active growth, provide sun to partial shade and monitor soil moisture, weeds, and leaf condition. Water regularly to reduce excessive bitterness and bolting. In warm or windy weather, check containers and exposed beds more frequently. Remove damaged material and keep enough space for air circulation. At harvest or after flowering, use clean tools and clear unhealthy debris. Healthy residue may be composted where appropriate. At the end of the season, clean containers and tools, record useful observations, and store remaining seed in a cool, dry, dark place. For best results, label the row and observe the plants regularly as conditions change through the season. Adjust watering to rainfall, wind, container size, and the actual moisture at soil level. Good air circulation and adequate spacing help foliage dry normally after rain or irrigation. Keep the growing area free of weeds that compete for light, moisture, and nutrients. Use clean tools for harvest and remove damaged plant material when it appears. Always follow the packet information when a variety-specific direction differs from general guidance. A simple garden label makes the cultivar easy to identify from sowing through harvest or flowering. Check young plants frequently because small moisture or pest problems are easier to address early. Avoid standing water around the roots, even when the crop prefers steady moisture.

Container growing

A garden,within reach.

Recommended pot size

Drained container suitable for adult development; see growing tips.
A wide enough container allows access to the leaves; adjust its depth to root development and use potting soil. The wild chicory proposed here should not be confused with a botanical dandelion. Keep the seedling identified and choose your harvest stage according to the tenderness of the leaves, especially if part of the production is intended for cooking. A fine seedbed, without a compact crust, facilitates the emergence of small seeds; maintain soil capable of retaining regular moisture. Water gently during establishment, then check the moisture under the leaves; a surface shaded by foliage can hide already dry soil. Support leaf production with inputs adapted to actual fertility, without systematically increasing doses after each small cut. Organize cuts so as not to trample the soil in the row, leaving space between the greens and neighboring large plants. During harvest, remove damaged leaves and observe the heart of the plant; the tender stage changes when bolting occurs. End the season by removing diseased residues and noting useful cutting dates to better distribute future sowings. This wild-type chicory provides upright green leaves with a strong flavor, to be picked young for a more tender texture.
Illustration associée à Chicorée sauvage, dans la gamme Weston. Cette chicorée de type sauvage fournit des feuilles vertes dressées au goût affirmé, à cueillir jeunes pour une texture plus tendre. Le visuel permet de repérer la référence et l’aspect présenté pour cette sélection. Les dimensions et les couleurs observées au jardin dépendent du stade de croissance et des conditions de culture.

Bloom and dimensions

Its place,in your garden.

Mature height

20 to 25 cm (8–10 in.)

Width / spread

25 to 36 cm (10–14 in.)

Days to maturity

80 to 85 days — supplier reference

Harvest

The wild chicory offered here should not be confused with a botanical dandelion.
Illustration associée à Chicorée sauvage, dans la gamme Weston. Cette chicorée de type sauvage fournit des feuilles vertes dressées au goût affirmé, à cueillir jeunes pour une texture plus tendre. Le visuel permet de repérer la référence et l’aspect présenté pour cette sélection. Les dimensions et les couleurs observées au jardin dépendent du stade de croissance et des conditions de culture.

Garden associations

In goodcompany.

Companion plants

A border of radishes or lettuces can accompany these greens if seasonal needs coincide; keep each row accessible for thinning and harvesting without disturbing nearby roots. Organize your cuts so as not to trample the soil of the row, leaving space between the greens and large neighboring plants. This wild-type chicory provides upright green leaves with a distinct flavor, to be picked young for a more tender texture. Water gently during establishment, then check for moisture under the leaves; a surface shaded by foliage may hide already dry soil. Plan sowing for the period suitable for the chosen greens and thin early so that the young leaves are not completely covered.

Recipe idea

From the gardento your plate.

Edible parts

Leaves
For four side servings, prepare 400 g (14 oz) of prepared wild chicory, 30 ml (2 tbsp) oil, one clove of garlic, and 30 ml (2 tbsp) water. Wash the chicory and remove any tough or damaged portions. Cut it into comparable pieces, then heat the oil in a large pan. Add the parts that require more cooking before the more tender ones. Add a little water if necessary and continue until a pleasant texture is achieved. Stir in the minced garlic towards the end, being careful not to burn it, and serve hot. Cultivated dandelion provides a distinct bitterness that should be balanced with a vinaigrette and mild ingredients. Pick the identified plant from the garden, without confusing it with uncertain wild harvests. Serve a small initial portion to adjust the seasoning to the actual taste of this harvest, then distribute the rest among your guests. Quickly cool leftovers in a shallow container and refrigerate. This preparation is intended for a meal; it is not a method of preservation at room temperature.

Frequently asked questions

Your questions,answered.

How should ‘Pissenlit’ chicory be sown?
Sow in spring and late summer for cool-season harvests. Prepare light, fertile, moist, well-drained soil. Sow about 3 mm deep. Keep the seedbed evenly moist until emergence without saturating it. Label the row and provide sun to partial shade. Thin crowded seedlings so the final spacing follows this guidance: 20 to 25 cm between plants. If plants are started indoors, provide strong light and harden them gradually before transplanting outdoors at the appropriate time. For best results, label the row and observe the plants regularly as conditions change through the season. Adjust watering to rainfall, wind, container size, and the actual moisture at soil level. Good air circulation and adequate spacing help foliage dry normally after rain or irrigation.
Which location is best for ‘Pissenlit’ chicory?
‘Pissenlit’ chicory prefers sun to partial shade and light, fertile, moist, well-drained soil. Choose a location that leaves enough room for 20 to 25 cm between plants. Avoid low spots where water remains after rain. In a container, use drainage holes and a clean growing mix. Observe how light moves across the space during the day, especially near buildings or taller plants. For best results, label the row and observe the plants regularly as conditions change through the season. Adjust watering to rainfall, wind, container size, and the actual moisture at soil level. Good air circulation and adequate spacing help foliage dry normally after rain or irrigation. Keep the growing area free of weeds that compete for light, moisture, and nutrients.
How should ‘Pissenlit’ chicory be watered?
Water regularly to reduce excessive bitterness and bolting. During germination, use a gentle spray or careful watering so seed is not displaced. After establishment, water at soil level when the surface begins to dry. Adjust frequency to rainfall, heat, wind, soil texture, and container size. Avoid standing water because roots still require oxygen. Morning watering can help foliage dry normally during the day. For best results, label the row and observe the plants regularly as conditions change through the season. Adjust watering to rainfall, wind, container size, and the actual moisture at soil level. Good air circulation and adequate spacing help foliage dry normally after rain or irrigation. Keep the growing area free of weeds that compete for light, moisture, and nutrients.
What maintenance does ‘Pissenlit’ chicory need?
Keep the planting labelled, weeded, and appropriately spaced. Check young plants regularly for wilting, chewing damage, discolouration, or crowding. Provide sun to partial shade and maintain the moisture pattern described for the crop. Use clean tools, avoid deep cultivation near established roots, and remove unhealthy debris. Apply any fertilizer or pest-control product only according to its label. For best results, label the row and observe the plants regularly as conditions change through the season. Adjust watering to rainfall, wind, container size, and the actual moisture at soil level. Good air circulation and adequate spacing help foliage dry normally after rain or irrigation. Keep the growing area free of weeds that compete for light, moisture, and nutrients. Use clean tools for harvest and remove damaged plant material when it appears.
When should ‘Pissenlit’ chicory be harvested?
Harvest ‘Pissenlit’ chicory when the edible part reaches the stage described for the cultivar or on the packet. Pick during the cooler part of the day when practical and use clean tools. Remove damaged portions, rinse according to the intended preparation, and cool perishable produce promptly. Regular picking may extend production for crops that continue forming leaves, pods, or fruit. Stop using any plant material that appears spoiled or unidentified. For best results, label the row and observe the plants regularly as conditions change through the season. Adjust watering to rainfall, wind, container size, and the actual moisture at soil level. Good air circulation and adequate spacing help foliage dry normally after rain or irrigation.