Endive Growing Guide
Endive is a leafy chicory relative grown for its slightly bitter, crisp leaves. Curly endive (frisee) and broad-leaved escarole are the two main types. It is a staple in European salad mixes and is often blanched to reduce bitterness.
Growing Conditions
Soil Requirements
Soil Type & pH
Best soil types: loam, sandy loam, silt loam
pH range: 5.5 - 7 (optimal: 6.5)
Drainage: good
Nutrient Needs (N-P-K)
Planting Guide
Yield & Economics
Common Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
- aphids
- slugs
- leaf miner
Common Diseases
- bottom rot
- downy mildew
- tip burn
Use to identify issues early and prevent crop losses.
Growing Tips
Blanch endive by tying outer leaves over the center head for 2-3 weeks before harvest to reduce bitterness and produce a pale heart.
Endive is less prone to bolting than lettuce in warm weather, making it a good late-spring salad green option.
Fall crops produce the best quality because cool nights enhance crispness and moderate bitterness.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does Endive take to grow?
Endive typically takes 65 days from planting to harvest. Seeds germinate in about 5 days. The best planting season is early spring, late summer.
What soil does Endive need?
Endive grows best in loam, sandy loam, silt loam soil with a pH of 5.5-7. Good drainage is required.
What temperature does Endive need?
Endive grows best at 12-20°C. Frost tolerance: light. Heat tolerance: low.
What is the expected yield for Endive?
Endive yields approximately 22,000 kg/hectare under good conditions. Multiple harvests per year are possible (2).
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