Endive

Endive is a leafy vegetable belonging to the Asteraceae family, closely related to chicory, radicchio, and escarole. It is known for its crisp, slightly bitter leaves and is often used in salads and other culinary dishes.

Starting Endive Plants

Endive can be started from seeds, either indoors or directly in the garden.

Indoor Seed Starting

Start seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost date in your area.

1. Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep in seed-starting trays filled with a well-draining potting mix.
2. Keep the soil moist and maintain a temperature between 60-70°F (15-21°C) for optimal germination.
3. Seedlings will emerge in 7-14 days.

Transplant seedlings to the garden after the risk of frost has passed and they have developed several true leaves.

Direct Sowing

Sow seeds directly in the garden 2-4 weeks before the last frost date for a spring crop, or 8-10 weeks before the first frost date for a fall crop.

1. Plant seeds 1/4 inch deep and 1 inch apart in rows 12-18 inches apart.

Thin seedlings to 8-12 inches apart when they are 2-3 inches tall.

Harvesting Endive

• Endive is typically ready for harvest 60-90 days after planting, depending on the variety and growing conditions.
• Harvest individual leaves as needed by cutting them at the base of the plant with a sharp knife.
• Alternatively, harvest the entire plant by cutting it at the base when it has reached the desired size.
• Endive can be harvested continuously until the plant begins to bolt or the leaves become too bitter.

Harvesting Endive Seeds

1. Allow a few endive plants to flower and develop seed heads.
2. When the seed heads turn brown and dry, cut them off and place them in a paper bag.
3. Hang the bag in a dry, well-ventilated area for 1-2 weeks to allow the seeds to fully mature.
4. Crush the dried seed heads and sift out the seeds.
5. Store the seeds in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for future planting.

Commonly Grown Endive Varieties

• Frisée (Curly Endive)
• Escarole (Broad-leaved Endive)
• Belgian Endive (Witloof)
• Rhodos

Uses as Food

Endive is a versatile vegetable that can be used in various dishes.

• Raw in salads, providing a crisp and slightly bitter contrast to other greens
• Grilled or roasted as a side dish
• Sautéed or braised with other vegetables or meats
• Used as a garnish or added to sandwiches for extra crunch and flavor
• Endive is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin K, as well as folate and dietary fiber.