How to Grow Broadleaf Forbs (Chicory & Plantain)
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Broadleaf Forbs (Chicory & Plantain)
Cichorium intybus (Chicory) / Plantago major (Plantain)
herbBroadleaf forbs are herbaceous plants with broad leaves that thrive in diverse pastures and grazing systems. Chicory and plantain are deep-rooted, nutrient-dense species that improve soil health, livestock nutrition, and pasture resilience. These plants are drought-tolerant, self-seeding, and provide high-quality forage for grazing animals year-round.
When should you plant Broadleaf Forbs (Chicory & Plantain) in your zone?
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Example Broadleaf Forbs (Chicory & Plantain) timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Broadleaf Forbs (Chicory & Plantain)
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Broadleaf Forbs (Chicory & Plantain)
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 3-9; excellent cold and heat tolerance
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Seedling (Weeks 1-3)
3 weeksTiny rosette of true leaves emerges; root system develops rapidly downward
Keep soil consistently moist; protect from livestock grazing; ensure good seed-to-soil contact; avoid compaction
Vegetative/Rosette (Weeks 3-8)
5-6 weeksDeep taproot establishes; 4-8 broad leaves form a low rosette; rapid leaf growth
Allow undisturbed growth for root penetration; maintain soil moisture; light nitrogen optional; begin grazing only after 8+ weeks
Grazing/Utilization (Months 2-12+)
Continuous through seasonPlant produces harvestable forage; regrows after grazing; may bolt to flowering under stress
Graze at 4-6 inch height; allow 3-4 week recovery between grazings; use rotational grazing; remove seed heads if self-seeding not desired
Flowering (Late spring/early summer, optional)
4-8 weeksChicory produces tall blue/purple flower stalks; plantain sends up seed spikes; plant energy diverts to reproduction
Clip before full flowering to redirect energy to leaves; allow some flowers for pollinators and self-seeding; deadhead if managing spread
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Minor issue; usually not economically harmful in pasture settings; monitor seedlings; increase plant density for competition; allow natural predators
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Tolerate moderate grazing pressure; rotating livestock and rest periods break life cycles; maintain plant vigor with proper fertility
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More common in wet conditions; improve drainage; allow natural predators (ground beetles, carabids); remove dense debris; not typically economically damaging
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Adequate spacing and air circulation; avoid overgrazing (weakens plant); diverse pasture reduces disease pressure; healthy plants usually recover
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Young, tender growth is preferred; mature plants with tough leaves may be avoided; harvest timing and plant stage management; integrate with palatable grasses
Uses
Livestock forage and nutrition
CulinaryChicory and plantain provide high-quality, nutrient-dense forage with elevated mineral content (Ca, Mg, K, Cu, Zn). Deep taproots access nutrients unavailable to shallow-rooted grasses, enriching pasture mineral profile and improving livestock performance, milk quality, and coat condition. [source]
Animal digestive and anthelmintic properties
MedicinalChicory contains inulin (prebiotic fiber) supporting ruminant gut health; plantain has antimicrobial and anthelmintic compounds that reduce internal parasite burden in grazing livestock. Traditional use for sheep and cattle parasite management. [source]
Soil improvement and erosion control
HouseholdDeep taproots break up compacted soil, improve water infiltration, and stabilize eroding hillsides. Decaying roots add organic matter; nitrogen-fixing associations with beneficial microbes enhance soil fertility. Reduces reliance on synthetic fertilizers. [source]
Pollinator and beneficial insect support
WildlifeChicory flowers attract bees, butterflies, and native pollinators. Plantain supports diverse insects. Diverse pastures with forbs provide essential habitat and food sources for beneficial insects that control agricultural pests. [source]
Human culinary and herbal use
CraftChicory roots are roasted as a coffee substitute or additive; young leaves are edible salad greens. Plantain leaves have traditional medicinal applications (wounds, respiratory). Diverse pastures can integrate human harvest with livestock grazing. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Begin grazing/harvesting 8+ weeks after establishment at 4-6 inch height. Rotate paddocks to allow 3-4 week recovery periods. Graze before flowering for highest nutritive value and leaf tenderness. Can be harvested 3-4 times per season in growing regions. Cut-and-carry systems: harvest at boot stage (pre-flower) for maximum nutrition. Remove flower heads if controlling self-seeding. Winter dormancy reduces grazing availability; plan supplemental forage.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Chicory taproots can penetrate 3-5+ feet into the soil, accessing water and minerals far deeper than perennial grasses, making it invaluable in drought conditions and improving pasture resilience to climate variability.
- 🌱 Plantain (Plantago major) is one of the most widely distributed plants globally and has been called 'nature's remedy' for centuries; it was carried to North America by European settlers and is now used by indigenous and modern herbalists alike.
- 🌱 Diverse pastures containing broadleaf forbs like chicory and plantain produce milk with different fatty acid profiles and potentially enhanced flavor compared to grass-only or legume monocultures, sought by artisanal cheese and dairy producers.
Gardening Terms
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