Radicchio
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This ancient family includes popular "continental" greens, most preferring cool weather and evenly moist soil. You may sow in the spring as soon as the soil can be worked, when the soil is about 45F degrees. However, late summer sowing for fall and winter harvest may be more successful. Wild at heart, most Chicories prefer to be direct-sown in moderately fertile soil; too much added fertilizer, especially nitrogen, can cause them to bolt. With all varieties, keep soil lightly moist until seedlings emerge. Chicories have varying degrees of bitter flavor and their dense texture adds desirable dimension to salads.
Average seed life: 2 years
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#2980 Indigo Radicchio: 60-72 days
Eureka! A Dutch breeder has produced a radicchio whose leaves will turn red without exposure to cold temperatures! Indigo is a fast-growing variety which is also incredibly bolt-resistant in hot weather, thus suitable for spring as well as fall sowing. Its burgundy, cup-shaped leaves have luminescent white on the midribs and a petite-rounded shape. Sow as recommended for chicory. The mild, slightly bitter flavor is wonderful: sauté coarsely chopped Indigo with garlic in olive oil. Toss with hot pasta and freshly grated parmigiana. Yum. (F1.)
Packet of 50 Seeds / $3.85
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#2988 Rossa di Treviso Radicchio: 80-90 days
An elongated, upright Italian heirloom with much the same shape as Belgian Endive, it has radiant white veins and midribs against rich burgundy-red leaves that develop in color as temperatures cool. Extremely cold-tolerant for early spring sowing, it is best grown in late summer for fall harvest. Its earthy taste and mildly bitter flavor are prized fresh in salad or halved, slathered with olive oil and grilled. (OP.)
Packet of 500 Seeds / $3.25
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