What are the cultivation techniques for bitter chicory? A full breakdown of the key growing points

Bitter chicory can clear heat and reduce internal heat, and has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and eyesight-improving benefits. Many households like to eat bitter chicory; it can be stir-fried or served as a cold dressed salad. So what are the cultivation techniques for bitter chicory?

1. Site selection

Bitter chicory prefers a cool environment, likes moisture and is fond of fertilizer, and is not tolerant of drought. It is relatively cold-tolerant and is suitable for planting on hillsides, under forest, in fields, or in areas near water sources at an altitude of 170-3200 m. When planting, choose loose soil rich in organic matter with good water and fertilizer retention, such as sandy loam or clay loam. It can adapt to a soil pH between 4.5-8.9, but grows best in slightly acidic soil. After selecting the site, rake the soil fine and level. While preparing the land, apply 1000-2000 kg of decomposed farmyard manure per mu as a base fertilizer according to the soil fertility status, then make the beds.

2. Sowing

It is suitable to plant in spring or autumn, and varieties with stable yield and strong disease resistance should be chosen. Because bitter chicory seeds are small, broadcast sowing is used. Open shallow furrows on the bed surface, scatter the seeds evenly, then cover with a layer of fine soil. The soil cover should not be too deep; keep it between 0.5-1 cm so as not to affect emergence. After sowing, water thoroughly once. Do not tread on it; a light firming is enough, so as not to affect the germination rate. Use about 2 kg of seed per mu. Pay attention to sowing density so as not to affect plant growth and the incidence of pests and diseases, thereby affecting yield and returns.

3. Management

Generally, seedlings emerge 4-5 days after sowing. After the seedlings break through the soil, inspect the field promptly and water appropriately to keep the soil moist, so that overly dry soil does not affect seedling growth. The root system of bitter chicory seedlings is weak, so loosen the soil in time to promote root growth; when loosening the soil, avoid damaging the roots. When the seedlings have grown to a certain extent, thin and fill in seedlings in time. Once diseased or weak seedlings are found, pull them out immediately. Also clear weeds from the field; weeds compete with seedlings for nutrients and can also induce problems, so remove them promptly. After removal, take them out of the field to reduce sources of pests and diseases.

4. Fertilizer and water

Water and fertilize reasonably according to the growth status of the plants to ensure normal growth. At the seedling stage, it is best to keep the soil alternating between dry and moist; do not water too much, so the seedlings do not grow leggy, and do not let it become too dry, which would cause the seedlings to age. During the peak growth period, also keep the soil moist. If water is insufficient, bitter chicory tastes more bitter and has a poorer texture. In the late growth stage, when harvest is near, control moisture to ensure quality.

5. Pest and disease control

Common pests and diseases of bitter chicory include downy mildew, viral disease, brown rot, aphids, and so on. If seedlings affected by pests or diseases are found, pull them out promptly and spray the corresponding chemicals according to the actual situation.

Bitter chicory is an excellent choice for clearing heat and reducing internal heat. Because of its heat-clearing and cooling effect, it is highly praised by consumers on the market. As market demand for it grows, its cultivation prospects are very good.