Chicory Catalogna Seeds, Puntarelle, Hardy And GMO-Free for Garden And Outdoor

Chicory Catalogna Seeds - Puntarelle, Hardy & GMO-Free for Garden & Outdoor

Key Features:

• Product Name: Chicory Catalogna (Cichorium intybus) Seeds - Puntarelle
• Quantity: Available in packs of 100, 500, or 1000 seeds
• Mature Height: Typically reaches 12-18 inches (30-45 cm)
• Sunlight Needs: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil Requirements: Well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0-7.5
• Uses:
  • Culinary: Puntarelle, a variety of chicory, is known for its tender, slightly bitter leaves and crunchy stalks. It's commonly used in salads, especially in Italian cuisine, and can also be sautéed or added to soups.
  • Health Benefits: Chicory is rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. It is also known for its digestive health benefits.

Product Details:

• Germination Rate: High, ensuring reliable and successful growth
• Seed Freshness: Fresh, GMO-free, and chemical-free seeds for optimal germination
• Sourcing: Sustainably sourced
• Shelf Life: Best planted within 1 year for maximum viability

Planting Instructions:

Seed Preparation:

• No special seed preparation is necessary for chicory catalogna.
• For better germination, you can soak the seeds in warm water for a few hours before planting, but this is optional.

Sowing Instructions:

• Indoor Sowing:

  • Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date.
  • Plant seeds 1/8 inch deep in seed trays or pots with a well-draining seed-starting mix.
  • Maintain a soil temperature of 60-70°F (15-21°C) and keep the soil moist but not soggy.

• Outdoor Sowing:

  • Once the last frost has passed and the soil temperature reaches about 55-60°F (13-16°C), sow seeds directly into the garden.
  • Space seeds 1-2 inches apart in rows that are 12-18 inches apart.
  • Thin seedlings once they emerge to allow proper growth.

Germination:

• Chicory seeds typically germinate in 7-14 days under optimal conditions.
• Keep the soil evenly moist but avoid waterlogging to prevent rot.

Transplanting:

• If sowing indoors, transplant seedlings to the garden when they have at least two sets of leaves and the outdoor conditions are suitable.
• Transplant at least 12-18 inches apart to allow for adequate airflow and room to grow.

Care & Maintenance:

Watering:

• Keep the soil consistently moist, but well-drained. Chicory does not tolerate waterlogging, so ensure good drainage.
• Water deeply but infrequently, especially during dry periods, to promote strong root development.

Fertilization:

• Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month, or use compost to ensure a nutrient-rich growing environment. Chicory prefers slightly alkaline to neutral soil.

Mulching:

• Apply mulch around the plants to help retain moisture and reduce weed competition.

Weeding & Pest Control:

• Regularly weed the garden to ensure chicory has access to all necessary nutrients.
• Monitor for pests like aphids or slugs. If necessary, use organic pest control methods.

Harvesting & Use:

Harvesting:

• Chicory Catalogna can be harvested when the leaves are large enough to eat, typically around 60-90 days after sowing.
• Harvest leaves and stalks as needed for fresh use.
• For the best flavor, harvest in the cooler parts of the day.

Use:

• Chicory Catalogna is a versatile plant that can be used in fresh salads, sautéed, or added to soups and stews.
• Puntarelle is commonly served raw with olive oil, garlic, and vinegar in Italian cuisine.

Benefits of Growing Chicory Catalogna:

• Hardy: This variety is cold-tolerant, making it perfect for fall or early spring gardening.
• Nutrient-Rich: Packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it a healthy addition to any diet.
• Versatile: Whether used raw in salads or cooked in various dishes, chicory catalogna adds a unique, slightly bitter flavor that enhances many recipes.
• Sustainable: Grow this GMO-free and organic variety in your garden to enjoy fresh, homegrown produce.

Enjoy the process of growing and harvesting this delicious, healthy, and hardy vegetable right in your garden!