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Brussels Witloof Atlas F1

Brussels Witloof Atlas F1

Regular price 1.550 KWD
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Growing Brussels Witloof Atlas F1, also known as Belgian endive or chicory, involves a unique blanching process to produce tender, pale leaves. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to grow Brussels Witloof Atlas F1:

**1. Planting Time:**
- Brussels Witloof Atlas F1 is typically grown as a fall or winter crop. Start the process in late spring or early summer for a late-season harvest.

**2. Soil Preparation:**
- Choose a well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.8. Improve soil fertility by adding organic matter such as compost.

**3. Sowing Seeds:**
- Begin by sowing Brussels Witloof Atlas F1 seeds directly in the garden or in seed trays. Plant the seeds about 1/4 inch deep.

**4. Transplanting:**
- Once the seedlings are a few inches tall, transplant them into the garden, adhering to the recommended spacing mentioned on the seed packet.

**5. Growing Phase:**
- Allow the plants to grow throughout the summer. Keep the soil consistently moist and provide a balanced fertilizer during the growing phase.

**6. Harvesting Outer Leaves:**
- In late fall, start harvesting the outer leaves of the chicory plants. These leaves can be used in salads or other dishes.

**7. Blanching Process:**
- In late fall or early winter, prepare the chicory roots for blanching. Dig up the plants, leaving about 1-2 inches of roots attached to the base of the plants. Trim off any excess leaves.

**8. Storage:**
- Store the chicory roots in a cool, dark place with a temperature between 32°F (0°C) and 40°F (4°C). This initiates the blanching process.

**9. Planting the Roots:**
- In late winter or early spring, replant the chicory roots in a dark, forcing container or directly in the garden. The forcing container should be buried in the ground to exclude light.

**10. Blanching Under Dark Conditions:**
- The roots will sprout tender, pale leaves in the absence of light. Keep the forcing container or the planted roots in a dark, cool place for about 3-4 weeks.

**11. Harvesting Witloof (Chicory Heads):**
- After the blanching period, harvest the Witloof heads when they are about 6-8 inches tall. The inner leaves will be pale and tender.

**12. Culinary Uses:**
- Use Witloof heads in salads, as a side dish, or cooked in various recipes.

**Tips:**
- Ensure the roots are stored in dark and cool conditions to promote the formation of pale leaves during blanching.
- Timing is crucial in the blanching process, so monitor the plants closely during the forcing period.

Growing Brussels Witloof Atlas F1 involves a bit of patience and attention to the blanching process. With proper care, you can enjoy the unique and flavorful Witloof heads in your culinary creations.
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