About Chicory
Chicory is a deep-taprooted cool-season perennial forb that provides some of the highest crude protein values (15–30%) of any food plot species, along with excellent acid detergent fiber levels that make it highly digestible. Its deep root system allows it to remain productive through summer droughts that would stress clovers, and it pairs exceptionally well with ladino or red clover in long-lived perennial blends. Seed must be kept very shallow — no deeper than one-eighth to one-quarter inch — and the stand will typically require 60–90 days before deer begin to use it heavily.
How much Chicory seed per acre?
The standard broadcast seeding rate for Chicory is 4–7 lbs per acre, dropping to about 3 lbs per acre when drilled. 4–5 lb/ac broadcast for pure stand; 2–3 lb/ac when drilling. Reduce to 1–2 lb/ac in a clover-chicory blend where clover dominates. The calculator above scales this to your exact plot size and converts it into the number of retail bags to buy.
When to plant Chicory
Chicory is a cool-season crop. In the northern US, plant in Aug–Sep; farther south, plant in Sep–Oct. Sow it 1/8" deep and plan on 60–90 to reliable deer use.
Soil, pH & fertilizer
Aim for a soil pH near 6.5(don't go below ~6). Apply 250 lb/ac 19-19-19 at establishment, or P and K per soil test. Nitrogen top-dress post-establishment increases production. Not sure where your soil sits? Read our soil test & lime guide.
Chicory blends well with ladino clover, red clover, alfalfa, orchardgrass if you want a more diverse, resilient plot.
Chicory FAQ
- How much Chicory seed do I need per acre?
- Broadcast Chicory at about 4–7 lbs per acre, or 3 lbs per acre if you drill it. 4–5 lb/ac broadcast for pure stand; 2–3 lb/ac when drilling. Reduce to 1–2 lb/ac in a clover-chicory blend where clover dominates.
- When should I plant Chicory?
- In the northern US plant in Aug–Sep; in the South plant in Sep–Oct. Expect 60–90 to reliable deer use.
- What soil pH does Chicory need?
- Chicory does best at a soil pH around 6.5 (minimum ~6). Apply 250 lb/ac 19-19-19 at establishment, or P and K per soil test. Nitrogen top-dress post-establishment increases production.
- Do deer like Chicory?
- Deer preference: high — 15–30% crude protein; deep taproot survives drought; very high digestibility.