(Best & Worst) Chicory Companion Plants

Are you tired of dealing with pesky pests and diseases in your garden?

Look no further than chicory companion plants for a natural solution. These hardy, versatile plants not only add beauty and interest to your garden, but they also have the remarkable ability to repel insects and attract beneficial pollinators.

In this article, we will explore the fascinating world of chicory companion plants and discover how they can help create a thriving ecosystem in your backyard.

What Is Chicory?

 

Chicory, scientifically known as Cichorium intybus, is a flowering plant that belongs to the daisy family. It is native to Europe, but it has been naturalized in many other parts of the world. Chicory has long been cultivated for its leaves and roots, commonly used in culinary preparations.

 

Benefits Of Chicory To Humans.

 

Chicory offers several benefits to humans, both in terms of its culinary uses and potential health benefits. Here are some of the key advantages:

1. Culinary uses: Chicory leaves can be used in salads or cooked as a leafy green vegetable. They have a slightly bitter taste that adds depth to dishes. Additionally, chicory roots are often roasted and ground to make a coffee substitute or blended with coffee for added flavour.
2. Digestive aid: The root of chicory contains a compound called inulin, which acts as a prebiotic. Prebiotics are substances that stimulate the growth and activity of beneficial bacteria in the gut. This can help improve digestion and promote a healthy gut microbiome.
3. Blood sugar regulation: Chicory contains compounds that have been shown to help regulate blood sugar levels. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals with diabetes or those at risk of developing diabetes.
4. Liver health: Studies have suggested that chicory may have protective effects on the liver by promoting liver health. Compounds found in chicory, such as flavonoids and phenolic acids, have been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can help protect the liver from damage caused by oxidative stress.
5. Weight management: Chicory is low in calories and high in fiber, making it a great addition to a weight management diet. The fiber content helps promote feelings of fullness and can help reduce calorie intake. Additionally, chicory may also help regulate appetite hormones.

Best Chicory Companion Plants

 

When it comes to companion planting, there are several plants that pair well with chicory to enhance its growth and deter pests. Some of the best chicory companion plants include:

1. Dill: Planting dill alongside chicory can help attract beneficial insects, such as ladybugs and lacewings, which prey on aphids and other harmful pests.
2. Nasturtiums: Not only add a splash of colour to your garden but also act as a natural pest repellent. They deter aphids, whiteflies, and cucumber beetles, which can all be harmful to chicory plants.
3. Marigolds: Are known for their ability to repel nematodes and other soil-borne pests. Planting marigolds near your chicory can help protect the roots from these pests while adding a vibrant touch to your garden.
4. Borage: is an excellent companion plant for chicory as it attracts bees and other pollinators, which are essential for the chicory plant to produce flowers and seeds. Additionally, borage leaves contain compounds that deter harmful insects like cabbage worms and tomato hornworms. By planting borage alongside your chicory, you not only enhance pollination but also provide protection against common garden pests.
5. Chives: offer a delicious addition to your culinary endeavors and act as a natural pest deterrent for chicory plants. The strong aroma of chives acts as a natural repellent for pests such as aphids, slugs, and snails. Planting chives near your chicory can help protect it from these unwanted visitors. Moreover, the beautiful purple flowers of chives attract beneficial insects like hoverflies and ladybugs, which feed on harmful pests

Worst Chicory Companion Plants.

 

Here are some of the worst companion plants for chicory:

1. Fennel: also attracts pests like aphids and caterpillars. Planting fennel near the chicory can increase the risk of infestation. It is best to keep fennel away from chicory plants to prevent any potential damage.
2. Tomatoes: While tomatoes and chicory may seem like a good combination, they actually have different nutrient requirements. Tomatoes are heavy feeders, meaning they require a lot of nutrients from the soil. Chicory, on the other hand, prefers leaner soil conditions. Planting tomatoes near chicory can result in competition for nutrients and stunted growth for both plants.
3. Beans: Chicory prefers well-drained soil with moderate moisture levels, while beans like more consistent moisture. Planting chicory near beans might result in soil moisture levels that are not ideal for either plant.
4. Parsnips: like chicory, prefer well-drained soil with moderate moisture levels. However, they have different nutrient requirements and growth habits. Chicory is a leafy green that can tolerate partial shade, while parsnips are root vegetables that need full sun to develop properly. Planting chicory near parsnips may result in the taller chicory plants shading out the smaller parsnip plants, reducing their access to sunlight. This can lead to poor root development and lower yields for
5. Lettuce: is a season crop that prefers cooler temperatures and partial shade. It has shallow roots and requires consistent moisture levels in the soil to grow well. Planting chicory near lettuce may affect its growth by competing for nutrients and water resources. The taller chicory plants can also create shade, which might cause the lettuce to bolt or develop a bitter taste.

How to plant chicory with companions

 

In this section, we will discuss the best method to grow chicory with companion plants. So let’s jump into it.

• Choose compatible companion plants: When planting chicory, it’s important to select companion plants that have similar growing requirements and won’t compete too heavily for resources. Good companion plants for chicory include carrots, dill, onions, and garlic.
• Allow enough space between plants: To ensure that the taller chicory plants don’t shade out their companions, make sure to provide adequate spacing between them. This will allow each plant to receive enough sunlight and proper air circulation. As a general rule, leave at least 12-18 inches of space between each chicory plant and its companions. This will also help prevent the spread of diseases and pests.
• Prepare the soil: Before planting chicory and its companion plants, it’s essential to prepare the soil properly(which may include testing the soils pH). Chicory prefers well-draining soil with a pH level between 5.8 and 6.5. Incorporate organic matter such and prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. To prepare the soil, start by removing any weeds or debris from the planting area. Loosas compost or well-rotted manure into the soil to improve its fertility and drainage. This will provide the necessary nutrients for healthy plant growthen the soil with a garden fork or tiller to a depth of about 8-10 inches. Break up any large clumps of soil and remove rocks or other obstacles that may hinder root development.

Maintaining a successful chicory companion garden

 

Once your chicory companion garden is established, it is important to maintain it properly to ensure the health and productivity of your plants. Here are some tips for maintaining a successful chicory companion garden:

1. Watering: Chicory plants require regular watering, especially during dry spells. It is best to water them deeply and infrequently rather than giving them shallow, frequent watering. This encourages deep-root growth and helps prevent waterlogging.
2. Mulching: Applying a layer of organic mulch around the base of your chicory plants can help conserve moisture and suppress weed growth. Use organic materials such as straw, wood chips, or compost to create a mulch layer that is about 2-3 inches thick. This will also add nutrients to the soil as it breaks down over time.
3. Weeding: Regularly check your chicory companion garden for weeds and remove them promptly. Weeds compete with the chicory plants for nutrients, water, and space, so keeping them under control is essential.
4. Sunlight: Chicory plants thrive in full sunlight, so make sure to choose a location for your companion garden that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day. This will ensure optimal growth and development of the chicory plants.

Common problems and solutions for chicory companion plants

 

Here are a few issues you may encounter and how to address them:

1. Pests: Chicory plants can be susceptible to pests such as aphids, slugs, and snails. To control these pests, consider using organic methods such as handpicking or applying natural pest repellents like neem oil or garlic spray. You can also encourage beneficial insects like ladybugs or lacewings to help keep pest populations in check.
2. Disease: Chicory plants may suffer from fungal diseases like leaf spot or powdery mildew. To prevent these diseases, ensure proper spacing between plants to allow for good air circulation. Avoid overhead watering and instead water at the base of the plant to prevent moisture buildup on the leaves. If necessary, apply organic fungicides like copper-based sprays or sulfur dust to control fungal infections.
3. Nutrient deficiencies: Chicory plants may exhibit nutrient deficiencies, particularly in soils that are low in nitrogen or magnesium. To address this issue, regularly test your soil and amend it with organic fertilizers or compost to provide adequate.

FAQs Chicory Companion Plants

Does chicory grow back every year?

Chicory is a perennial plant, meaning it can regrow and come back every year. However, it does require some maintenance to ensure its longevity. Proper care and attention will help the plant establish itself in your garden and continue to thrive over the years.

Does chicory like sun or shade?

 

Chicory thrives in full sun, so it is best to plant it in an area that receives at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight per day. While chicory can tolerate some shade, too much shade can result in weaker growth and fewer flowers. Therefore, it is recommended to provide as much sunlight as possible for optimum growth and productivity.

Conclusion:

 

Wrapping up, chicory is a versatile and hardy plant that can be a valuable addition to any garden. Its beautiful blue flowers, unique flavor, and health benefits make it worth considering for both ornamental and culinary purposes. By providing the right conditions of full sun, well-drained soil, and regular maintenance, you can ensure the longevity and success of your chicory plants. So go ahead and give chicory a try in your garden – you won’t be disappointed!