I use my Chicory fresh from my patio garden almost daily for sandwiches and salad and snacks. It germinates quickly and almost every seed grows. I start using it when very young and just pick what I need so that the plant goes on producing. I have grown many varities and they always are a pleasure. Since I am in Florida, I have fresh leaves year round -during freezing weather, I move them indoors for the night but our sunshine in the day keeps me Chicory all year. Try it, the Seeds from Italy are the best and I have tried many other companies. Happy Growing, Nellie in Cassadaga, Florida.