100 Organic Radicchio - Red Verona Seeds; Heirloom; Non-GMO

Small, red, cabbage-like heads ready to pick in fall.
 
Leaves are sharp-flavored, use sparingly in green salads. May also be sauteed, steamed or grilled with meats. GARDIN HINTS: Do not plant too early in spring or plants may bolt (go to seed). In early fall, cut off all leaves above the crown. New growth in cool weather produces the small, red, cabbage-like heads.
 
How to Sow and Plant
Sow in early spring 2-3 weeks before the last frost and again in midsummer for a fall harvest.
Sow in average, well-worked soil in a sunny location.
In rows 12 inches apart, sow seeds evenly and cover with ¼ inch of fine soil. Firm lightly and water gently.
Seedlings emerge in 7-14 days depending on soil and weather conditions.
Thin gradually to stand 12 inches apart starting when seedlings are about 3 inches high.
 
How to Grow
New growth in cool weather produces the small, red, cabbage-like heads.
For mid-summer plantings, cut off all leaves above the crown in early fall.
Keep weeds under control during the growing season. Weeds compete with plants for water, space and nutrients, so control them by either cultivating often or use a mulch to prevent their seeds from germinating. Avoid disturbing the soil around the plants when weeding as radicchio is shallow rooted.
Keep plants well watered during dry periods to promote rapid, uninterrupted growth. Plants need about 1 inch of rain per week during the growing season. Use a rain gauge to check to see if you need to add water. It’s best to water with a drip or trickle system that delivers water at low pressure at the soil level. If you water with overhead sprinklers, water early in the day so the foliage has time to dry off before evening, to minimize disease problems. Keep the soil moist but not saturated.
Monitor for pests and diseases. Check with your local Cooperative Extension Service for pest controls recommended for your area.
 
Tips
Harvest individual leaves any time.
Harvest heads when they are firm to touch, usually 60-65 days after sowing.
Radicchio makes a great lettuce substitute in salads. Leaves can be sautéed or steamed as well as eaten raw.
The older the head the more bitter the flavor.
After a frost, harvest the head, remove and discard any leaves that are frozen on the outside.
Store in a perforated plastic bag in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 weeks.
 
FAQs
Can I grow radicchio in a container?
Yes, radicchio is great for containers. Be sure to use a commercial potting mix rather than garden soil.

My radicchio is blooming, can I still harvest it?
It sounds like your plants have bolted, which can happen when the weather becomes hot in spring. At this point the plants should be pulled up.

Can you cook radicchio?
Yes, radicchio may be used both raw in salads or sautéed.  

What companion plants can I plant with radicchio?
Plant with lettuce, avoid endive or escarole.

Why does my radicchio taste bitter?
Radicchio does tend to have a bitter taste, but it will taste more bitter right before it is about to bolt in hot weather.