Common Chicory

Description

Primarily valued in permaculturel systems as a “biological plow” due to its massive taproot. It pairs exceptionally well with clover or other legumes; since chicory is a nitrogen-hungry plant, the legumes provide the necessary nitrogen it needs to thrive. Can be harvested as a bitter salad green. Bitterness increases as the plant ages or gets hot, so early spring or fall harvests are best. Dig up roots in fall or early spring to roast and grind as a caffeine-free coffee substitute. In forest gardens, you can “chop and drop” chicory leaves around the base of fruit trees to provide a nutrient-rich mulch.