Seeds & More

Chicory varieties

In chicory cultivation, use is made of varieties adapted to the growing season. These varieties are selected to produce optimally during a particular forcing period. For example, there are varieties with roots that only require a very short cooling period, while the roots of other varieties may require up to six months of cooling to produce a tightly closed head of chicory. Varieties are also selected for numerous other characteristics. Each grower chooses one or more varieties that best fit their market segment and specific conditions. For example, in organic cultivation, different varieties are often used than in conventional cultivation. Standard chicory witloof varieties for early season forcing include Atlas, Bingo, Darling and the red chicory variety Céralie. The chicory witloof varieties Fakir, First Lady, and Sweet Lady are very suitable for mid-season forcing. The Vintor, Absolue, and Topmodel varieties are at their best when the roots have been stored in a cold store for more than six months. The red chicory variety, Ceralie, can be found under ‘early season’ varieties.