Chicory has not hearted up – reasons?

[RhysParticipant]

Charles

I grew chicory this year for the first time, sowing first week July and transplanting end July.

All plants grew really well, but none have hearted up.

Soil is very fertile, but sunlight limited from early September.

Is this something which cow manure might overcome or could it be the lack of sunlight?

We are still using the heads,but they are not as tasty as traditional lettuce….

Any thoughts appreciated

Rhys

[charlesModerator]

Ah shame. It may be question of which variety as some do not heart willingly, or heart in December! Do let me know what you sowed.

[RhysParticipant]

Bianca di Milano from Seeds of Italy.

[charlesModerator]

I grew Bianca di Milano, once.
Once was enough, pale inner leaves, if it did heart they often rotted around the edge.
Seeds of Italy’s range of chicories is interesting but variable – currently I have problems with Lusia not standing as hearts, whereas Marzatica does stand but some plants make no heart.
I would try Bingenheim’s chicory next year.

[Author]

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