Heirloom Endive Seed

Seeds or Seedlings 5 to 7 days, 35F to 85F 5 years Well Drained Full Sun, Part Shade 1" to 2" apart 8" to 12" apart 90 to 100

Growing Guide
GROWING NOTES
Partial shade beneficial in hot weather.

Biennial grown as an annual.

MAINTAINING
Like lettuce and other cool-season greens, endive needs short days and cool temperatures.

Direct seed ¼-inch deep in rows 18 inches apart 2 to 4 weeks before average last frost. Make succession plantings for continuous harvest. Thin to 8 to 12 inches.

For extra-early crops, start seed inside 6 to 8 weeks before last frost. Transplant into garden about 2 weeks before last frost.

To prevent plants from going to seed (bolting), keep them well-watered and shaded when temperatures are above 75 F. Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

For fall harvests, direct seed in garden about 2 to 3 months before expected fall frost. Light frost enhances flavor.

Blanch heading varieties for a milder flavor. A week or so before harvest, pull outer leaves over head and tie. Make sure leaves are dry to avoid rot. Other blanching alternatives include placing a flower pot over the plant, or covering with a cardboard disk or plastic container. Self-blanching varieties are available. Close plant spacing (about 8 inches) encourages self-blanching.