The effect of plant density and fertilization on the production of Cichorium intybus L. roots and inulin content

Chicorium intybus L., Asteraceae, known popularly as Chicory, has many uses and is still not cultivated in Brazil. Its roots are a source of inulin, a chemical compound used in the production of high fructose syrup and fructo sis olygomers for medicinal purposes. In order to evaluate the effect of pl ant density and fertilization on the production of roots and inulin content , seedlings were transplanted to an experimental field; two spacings and tw o fertilization programs were tested. After four months the roots were harv ested and weighted; root crop production and inulin content were analyzed b y HPLC and compared between trials. The results showed the 0.50 x 0.25 m sp acing can be adopted, due to the higher production per area, and there was no difference between the two fertilization programs adopted.