Chicory Pest Problems: How to Identify and Control Them

Chicory is a popular crop that can be grown for its leaves, roots, or even as a coffee substitute. It is easy to grow and typically does not encounter many problems. However, like any other crop, chicory is vulnerable to pests that can cause significant damage if not identified and controlled.

Identifying Chicory Pests

One of the most common pests that attack chicory is flea beetles. These small, shiny black beetles jump around on the plants and chew small holes in the leaves. They can be identified by their size - about 1/16 inch long - and their jumping behavior.

Another pest that can cause damage to chicory plants is the cutworm. These caterpillars are often found curled up in the soil near plants and will chew through the stems at ground level.

Other pests that may affect chicory include aphids, slugs, snails, and nematodes. Aphids are small insects that suck sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and wilting. Slugs and snails leave slimy trails on the leaves and eat holes in them. Nematodes are microscopic worms that live in the soil and can cause root rot, which can kill the entire plant.

Controlling Chicory Pests

The best way to control pests on your chicory plants is to use integrated pest management (IPM) techniques. These methods involve using a combination of cultural, physical, and chemical controls to keep pests under control without risking harm to the environment or beneficial insects.

Cultural controls involve practices that promote healthy plants and soil. This includes selecting disease-resistant varieties of chicory, rotating crops to avoid pest buildup, and using compost or other organic matter to improve soil health.

Physical controls involve physically removing pests from the plants. This can include handpicking beetles off the plants or using row covers to prevent pests from accessing the plants.

Chemical controls involve using pesticides to control pests. However, these should be used only as a last resort and should be selected based on their effectiveness against the specific pest and their impact on the environment.

Preventing Chicory Pest Problems

Preventing pest problems is always easier than dealing with them after they occur. There are several steps you can take to prevent pests from attacking your chicory plants:

• Inspect plants regularly for signs of pests.
• Plant disease-resistant varieties of chicory.
• Practice good sanitation, including removing plant debris and keeping the area around the plants clean.
• Avoid over-fertilization, which can attract pests.
• Use companion planting to attract beneficial insects that can help control pests.

Chicory is a great crop to grow in your garden, but it is important to be aware of the pests that can cause damage. By identifying and controlling pests early and following prevention strategies, you can ensure that your chicory plants stay healthy and produce a bountiful harvest.

A photo of a chicory plant

A photo of a flea beetle

A photo of a cutworm

flea beetles, cutworms, aphids, slugs, snails, nematodes