Endive Garden Guide

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Endive

Endive Stat Summary

Plant Spacing: 10" (254 mm)
Row Spacing: 18" (457 mm)
Planting Depth: 1/4" (6 mm)
Plants Per Person: 4
Soil Temperature: 60-70°F (16-21°C)
Days to Emergence: 5-7
Recommended Soil PH:
Seed Indoors: 6-8 weeks before transplanting
Earliest Outdoor Planting: Before Last Frost
Tick Can direct seed outdoors
Tick Can seed indoors

Planting Endive

Endive are cool-season greens needing short days and cool temperatures; a light frost can enhance the flavor. Prefers rich moisture retentive soil with plenty of compost dug in. About 2 to 4 weeks before average last spring frost direct sow 1/4 inch deep, 10 inches between plants with rows 18 inches apart. For an early crop start seed inside 6 to 8 weeks before last frost. Transplant into garden about 2 weeks before last frost. For fall harvests, direct seed in garden about 2 to 3 months before expected fall frost.

Growing Endive

Keep endive well-watered and shaded when temperatures are above 75 F; this helps prevent plants from going to seed. Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds. For a milder taste, blanch endive plants 1 or 2 weeks before harvest; either pull dry outer leaves over head and tie, or use plastic or brown paper container to cover.

Harvesting and Storing Endive

Harvest endive as soon as its leaves are large enough to be used. Pick individual leaves or allow heads to mature and cut the entire plant at ground level. Best if eaten immediately after being picked. For short-term storage seal leaves in plastic bags and refrigerate; good for about 10 days.

Endive Insect and Disease Information

Aphids can be minimized by using floating row covers. If aphids get a foothold, remove with a strong spray of water from the hose. Endive is rarely bothered by disease.

Endive Yield Information

No yield information for Endive.