Planting Instructions: Endive is generally very easy to grow. You can start indoors or plant directly in the garden. Good results are had by planting in beds, ¼ inch deep, covered with light soil, one to two inches apart. Thin to six to eight inches apart
Once the plants are mature, tie the leaves together to blanch the heart.
If you plan to save seed, care should be taken to ensure that Endive and Chicory are not in close proximity (at least 500 feet) as cross-pollination will occur. Endive will tolerate light frosts.
Informational References:
- "Les Plantes Potageres: Description Et Culture Des Principaux Legumes Des Climats Temperes," Vilmorin-Andrieux, Et Cie., Paris, 1883.
- "Wholesale Price-List of Garden, Flower, Tree, Agricultural and Herb Seeds: Also, a select list of Gladioli and Other Spring Bulbs Offered by J. M. Thorburn & Co.," New York, NY, 1898.
- "List of American Varieties of Vegetables for the Years 1901 and 1902," W. W. Tracy, Jr., U.S. Department of Agriculture, Washington, D.C., 1903.