Chicory Seed (lb)

Description

Cichorium intybus brings a different growth pattern to pastures and cover crop plantings. Instead of producing a dense mat of shallow roots, this perennial broadleaf develops a long taproot that explores deeper soil layers. That rooting habit helps established plants remain productive during dry periods and makes chicory a useful companion to grasses and legumes with shallower root systems.

Chicory is grown primarily for leafy forage and performs best in well-drained to moderately drained soil with medium to high fertility and a pH of 5.5 or above. It is commonly seeded into pasture mixtures, where its upright leaves add diversity and provide mineral-rich forage. Plant growth and forage quality change as the stand matures, so regular grazing or mowing is important when the goal is to maintain tender, leafy growth.

Use chicory as a small component of a mixed pasture or plant it alone where a deeper-rooted perennial is desired. Give new seedlings time to establish before heavy grazing, and avoid repeatedly removing growth too close to the crown. Chicory does not form a nitrogen-fixing relationship with Rhizobium bacteria, so no seed inoculant is required. When included with clovers or other legumes, inoculate the legume seed separately according to its needs.

Scientific Name: Cichorium intybus

Growth Habit: Deep-rooted perennial broadleaf forage herb

Application Rate: 4–5 lb per acre when planted alone, or 1–2 lb per acre in a mixture with grasses and/or legumes

Inoculant: Not required. This is a nonlegume cover crop and does not rely on Rhizobium bacteria for nitrogen fixation.

Germination: Approximately 7–10 days under suitable conditions

Plant Height: Approximately 2 feet

Days to Maturity: Approximately 70–75 days

Site Preference: Well-drained to moderately drained soil with medium to high fertility and a pH of 5.5 or greater

Uses: Diverse pasture mixtures, livestock forage, deep rooting, mineral uptake, and improved dry-season forage availability

Management: Graze or mow to encourage leafy regrowth while protecting the plant crown during establishment