The chicory plant (Cichorium intybus) is a versatile herb cultivated for leafy greens, a root vegetable, and a forage crop. Gardeners seek chicory seeds to grow everything from bitter salad additions to a natural coffee substitute. Sourcing the right seeds depends entirely on the intended use, as different varieties have been bred for specific traits. This guide helps navigate the process of finding and purchasing high-quality chicory seeds for successful cultivation.
Identifying Chicory Seed Varieties
Before searching for a vendor, growers must identify the specific type of chicory they wish to cultivate, as seeds are categorized by end-use. The most common category is Leaf Chicory, which includes popular Italian varieties like Radicchio, Endive, and Sugarloaf. These are grown primarily for their edible leaves in cool-season salads. Leaf chicory plants have varying levels of bitterness, and some, like Radicchio, are prized for their vibrant red and white coloration.
A second category is Root Chicory, distinguished by its thick taproot intended for processing rather than greens. These roots are dried, roasted, and ground to be used as a coffee additive or a complete substitute. The root is also a primary commercial source of inulin, a dietary fiber.
The third type is Forage Chicory, such as Puna or Grouse cultivars, which are planted in bulk for livestock grazing. These varieties are bred for high protein content and persistence in pastures. They are often sold in much larger quantities than standard garden seed packets. Selecting the correct seed type is the first step toward a successful purchase.
Primary Online and Mail-Order Seed Sources
The most comprehensive selection of chicory seeds is found through online and mail-order retailers. Large national seed retailers offer common varieties of leaf chicory, such as standard endive, and bulk forage chicory, often listed with agricultural supplies. These sites provide convenience and high-volume options, making them a good starting point for general gardening needs.
Specialized and heirloom seed banks are better resources for unique or regionally specific cultivars, particularly the diverse Italian chicories. Searching for specific terms like “Italian chicory” or the cultivar name, such as “Palla Rossa,” will yield more targeted results than a generic “chicory” search. These focused suppliers often carry seeds adapted for specific culinary qualities, like reduced bitterness or unique head formation.
E-commerce platforms host many independent sellers, offering a wide array of options, including rare or imported seeds. Buyers should vet these sellers for seed quality and freshness, often indicated by customer reviews and detailed product descriptions. This approach is useful for finding specialized root chicory varieties that may be difficult to locate elsewhere.
Local and Specialized Retail Options
For gardeners who prefer an in-person purchase or require seeds immediately, local retail options offer alternatives to online ordering. Local garden centers and nurseries often stock common chicory varieties known to perform well in the regional climate. This selection usually focuses on popular leaf chicory types, such as standard radicchio or endive, aimed at the home vegetable gardener.
Those interested in planting larger quantities of root or forage chicory may find better options at agricultural supply stores or farm cooperatives. These establishments specialize in bulk seed sales and often carry specific cultivars, like Puna or Six Point, designed for pasture or commercial root production. Purchasing from a local cooperative increases the likelihood of acquiring seeds adapted to local soil and weather conditions.
Occasionally, organic food stores or local farmer’s markets host seed swaps or feature seeds from small-scale growers. These sources provide access to locally adapted, organic, or rare chicory strains that might not be available through major commercial channels. This is a way to find unique, locally sourced genetics.
Important Buying Considerations
Once a source is identified, a buyer must evaluate the quality and specifications of the chicory seed before finalizing the purchase. The germination rate is an important metric, indicating the percentage of seeds expected to sprout under optimal conditions. Quality seed packets should list this rate, which for chicory can range from 50% up to 80% or more, with sprouting typically occurring within four to ten days.
The choice between organic and treated seeds is another important consideration, particularly for those growing edible greens or roots. Organic seeds are produced without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers. Treated seeds may be coated with fungicides or insecticides for protection against early-stage diseases. For edible crops, many gardeners prefer untreated, organic options.
Buyers should also pay attention to the packaging date and storage conditions, as chicory seeds remain viable longer when kept cool and dry. Consider the quantity needed; a small packet is sufficient for a home garden. Those planning to grow a coffee substitute or a large forage plot will require bulk purchases, often sold by the ounce or pound.