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Pale Leaves in Chicory
verifiedReviewed by the GreenScout Team
Chicory is a cool-season leafy vegetable with slightly bitter leaves used in salads or cooked dishes
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Chicory care requirements
These care conditions are most relevant to pale leaves in Chicory. Check each one as a potential cause.
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Light
Full sun (6–8 hours); partial shade in hot climates tolerates lower light.
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Fertiliser
Light feeding; apply balanced fertilizer monthly or use compost. Avoid excess nitrogen, which promotes leafy growth over roots.
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Water
Moderate water; once established, drought-tolerant. Water regularly for tender leaves; reduce frequency for root crops.
symptoms
Symptoms to look for in Chicory
- fiber_manual_recordWashed-out, pale colour
- fiber_manual_recordYellowing between veins
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Common causes in Chicory
- fiber_manual_recordIron deficiency
- fiber_manual_recordMagnesium deficiency
- fiber_manual_recordToo much direct sun
- fiber_manual_recordAlkaline soil
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How to diagnose pale leaves in Chicory
Interveinal yellowing on new growth = iron deficiency. On old growth = magnesium deficiency.
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How to treat pale leaves in Chicory
Apply chelated iron or Epsom salt as appropriate. Adjust soil pH.
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Preventing pale leaves in Chicory
Use ericaceous compost for acid-loving plants. Feed with micronutrient fertiliser.