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chicory
Asteraceae
Weston
Cichorium intybus
Variegata di Lusia Radicchio Seeds
From seed to harvest
Common nameRadicchio
FamilyAsteraceae
GenusCichorium
Speciesintybus
CultivarVariegata di Lusia
Typechicory
Botanical nameCichorium intybus
Heirloom varietytrue
Quantity per packet2000 to 2500 seeds
Variegata di Lusia Radicchio Seeds (Cichorium intybus) Variegata di Lusia is a radicchio valued for its own variegated leaf colouring. Use the leaves in chicory preparations that show their individual colour and texture.
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.
Judge maturity by this variety's own colouring rather than expecting a uniformly red head. Harvest leaves or developed heads at the appropriate edible stage for this variegated selection.
Light and life cycle
In the garden
- Exposure
- Full sun
- Life cycle
- Annual or biennial depending on type
Sowing and germination
Sowing guide
Sowing & germination
Sowing depth
3 mm
Spacing / density
20 to 25 cm between plants
Germination temperature
16 to 20°C
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.
Soil and care
Soil and care
Soil & care
Soil pH
5.5 to 6.5
Watering
Water gently during establishment, then check moisture beneath the leaves.
Soil type
A fine seedbed without a compacted surface crust helps small seeds emerge.
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.
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.
Growing in containers
Container growing
Container growing
A sufficiently wide container makes the leaves easy to reach.
Growth and harvest
Size, flowering & harvest
Mature height
10 to 18 cm (4–7 in)
Width / spread
15 to 20 cm (6–8 in)
Edible parts
Leaves
Days to maturity
75 to 80 days
Harvest
Harvest leaves or developed heads at the appropriate edible stage for this variegated selection.
Garden companions
Garden associations
Companion plants & uses
Companion plants
Radishes or lettuce can border these greens when their seasonal growing needs are compatible.
Other recommended plants
Wild Chicory; Bionda Broad Leaf Cutting Chicory; KS Attraction Lettuce
Garden use
Use the leaves in chicory preparations that show their individual colour and texture. Judge maturity by this variety's own colouring rather than expecting a uniformly red head.
Frequently asked questions
Frequently asked questions
How should ‘Variegata di Lusia’ radicchio 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.
Where should I grow Variegata di Lusia Radicchio?
Light: Sun to partial shade. A fine seedbed without a compacted surface crust helps small seeds emerge. Light: Sun to partial shade. ‘Variegata di Lusia’ radicchio 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.
How should I water Variegata di Lusia Radicchio?
Water gently during establishment, then check moisture beneath the leaves. 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.
What maintenance does ‘Variegata di Lusia’ radicchio 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.
When should I harvest Variegata di Lusia Radicchio?
Harvest leaves or developed heads at the appropriate edible stage for this variegated selection. Judge maturity by this variety's own colouring rather than expecting a uniformly red head.
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