Planting Endive
For optimum flavor, grow Endive in cool weather after danger of frost. Will not germinate at temperatures over 80 degrees F.
Sow in average soil in full sun in early spring for the first crop and again in late summer for a fall crop.
In rows 12 inches apart, sow seed directly in the ground ¼ inch deep and cover with fine soil. Firm lightly and keep evenly moist.
Seedlings emerge in 7-10 days depending on soil and weather conditions.
How to Grow Endive
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When leaves reach 10 inches long, about 40 days after sowing, tie them together to blanch the center leaves.
Blanching helps improve the flavor by making the leaves less bitter. Remove bands during rain periods to prevent rotting.
Keep weeds under control during the growing season. Weeds compete with plants for water, space and nutrients, so control them by either cultivating often or use a mulch to prevent their seeds from germinating. Avoid disturbing the soil around the plants when weeding.
Keep plants well watered during dry periods to promote rapid, uninterrupted growth. Plants need about 1 inch of rain per week during the growing season. Use a rain gauge to check to see if you need to add water. It’s best to water with a drip or trickle system that delivers water at low pressure at the soil level. If you water with overhead sprinklers, water early in the day so the foliage has time to dry off before evening, to minimize disease problems. Keep the soil moist but not saturated. Monitor for pests and diseases. Check with your local Cooperative Extension Service for pest controls recommended for your area.
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Endive Harvesting and Preserving Tips
Harvest the plants about 80 days after you plant them, but before the first frost. If you wait until after the first frost, the endive growing in your garden will be ruined. Now that you know how to grow endive, plan on having some really nice salads late summer and early fall.