Chicory Rosa / Pink Radicchio (40-87)

Pink Chicory, known in Italy as Radicchio La Rosa del Veneto, is a loose heading radicchio with a vivid pink color and subtle pink markings. The flavor is less bitter than other chicories.  The best color is achieved when it matures in cool weather.  Start seeds in mid- to late summer and transplant to the garden in early fall. Pink Radicchio takes about four months to mature. Space plants 8-12 inches apart in rows 12 inches apart. Like lettuce, radicchio has shallow roots, so keeping it well-watered and mulched is important. Supply 1-1.5 inches of water per week. The most critical watering period is 10-14 days before maturity. Lack of water then can turn the leaves bitter. Heads mature at different rates. Pick when heads are soft, before a core (seed stalk) starts to form. They can be stored in the refrigerator for three to four weeks. This is one of Franchi's Professional Series, suitable for market farmers as well as experienced backyard gardeners. A pack is 0.5 grams, approximately 300 seeds. Approximately 600-900 seeds per gram.   For more information, see our Growing Guide to Chicory.