Chicory

Cichorium intybus

Low to moderate moisture requirement; full sun or partial shade. Pale blue blossoms randomly located along main branches of plants normally 3 to 5 feet tall. Deep-seated taproot enables this perennial plant to compete well for moisture in pastures, fields or along roadsides. Declared noxious only in Colorado. Fast growing biennial or short-lived perennial forb, somewhat woody and with pale blue flowers when allowed to bolt. Widely adapted to fertile, well-drained sites; intolerant of wet soils. Use in pastures and wildlife food plots. Forage quality comparable to many legumes. Dries too brittle to be a suitable hay plant. Deep taproot provides drought tolerance, extending midsummer pastures when other forages slump. Accumulates trace minerals and nutrients from lower subsoils. Reduces gastrointestinal parasites in small livestock and deer. Certain growing conditions may increase toxic nitrate levels. Taproot can be damaged by overgrazing or excessive trampling. Graze before bolt.  Chicory is a perennial herb, a forage crop that has large, dandelion-like leaves and is high in nutritional value. This Cool season member of the sunflower originated from Europe but is now found in much of North America.  Product Tech Sheet Related ProductsBuckwheatSugar Beets   Very good drought tolerance due to the deep taproot Remains green throughout the Warm summer months Seed in spring at a rate of 5-8 LBS/Acre as a monoculture or 1-2 LBS/ Acre as part of a mixture Deer will prefer over other plants Works well within food plot mixes with clovers and legumes Prefers well to moderately well drained soils Is a low growing rosette with broad leaves