Chicory – Brussels Witloof (Autumn)

A classic white chicory variety for forcing

Also known as Belgian Endive (if you are confused about the difference between chicory and endives, then don’t worry, you are not alone – it’s right up there with turnip and swede!) this is a really classic variety to grow. It is one of the best for blanching/forcing (more on that below) and can also be used for baby leaf salads. Plant it 25-30cm apart.

To ‘force’ chicory:

In late autumn (Nov/Dec) lift the plants and cut any foliage to 2-3cm above the roots. Replant into deep pots or containers: use potting compost to fill the pots leaving about 15cm from the top of the pot. Re-plant the chicory so that the top of the plant is only just showing and then cover with compost filling the pot almost to the top (so you will be adding another 12-15cm compost on top of the planted chicory.)

Put the pots/containers in a warm dark place – an outside building or shed, for example.  3-4 weeks later the forced ‘chicons’ will be ready for harvest.

Number of plants: 10 plug plants

Variety: Brussels Witloof (organic*)

In the kitchen: Can be used in salads or cooked. Try blanching it or braised.

*Transplants suitable for organic growing.