The development of Cichorium intybus progresses through defined phases, each characterized by distinct morphological and physiological changes. These include germination, seedling establishment, rosette formation, stem elongation (bolting), flowering, seed development, and senescence. Understanding these discrete periods is critical for effective cultivation and management strategies.
Knowledge of these developmental periods is essential for optimizing resource allocation, predicting yields, and implementing timely interventions to mitigate potential stressors. Historically, awareness of plant phenology has been instrumental in agricultural planning, influencing planting dates, fertilization regimes, and harvesting schedules, ultimately improving crop performance.
