Endive & Escarole (Cichorium endivia)
Endive and escarole are hardy and can be planted as early as the soil can be worked.
Temperature
Endive is a cool-weather crop that thrives at temperatures between 60–65°F. Selecting the right variety is crucial for planting in hot weather, as endive seeds can enter thermal dormancy if exposed to temperatures above 77°F. The best germination occurs when soil temperatures are between 60–68°F. A light frost in the fall can enhance the flavor of the crop.
Planting
Transplanting:
- Sow seeds in flats at a rate of 4 seeds per inch or in ¾" plug trays, covering them lightly with fine vermiculite, about 3–4 weeks before transplanting outdoors.
- If necessary, provide shade on sunny, warm days to keep the soil surface cool, below 75°F, until germination occurs.
- For flats, transplant seedlings 1–2" apart into flats, pots, or cell containers after 2 weeks.
- To harden off, reduce watering and lower the temperature for 2–3 days before transplanting outdoors.
- Well-hardened seedlings can tolerate temperatures as low as 20°F.
- Space plants closely at 8–10" to encourage self-blanching in these varieties.
Direct Seeding:
- Seeds germinate best between 41-85°F, with the highest germination rate occurring around 75°F, depending on the variety and seed lot.
- Sow seeds at a rate of 6 seeds per foot, with rows spaced 12-18" apart.
- Lightly cover the seeds with about 1/8" of soil and gently firm the surface.
- Water dry soil to ensure it remains cool and moist for uniform germination.
- Once the seedlings are large enough to handle, thin them to 8" apart.
Salad Mix/Baby Leaf:
- Sow seeds in a 2-4" wide band, planting about 60 seeds per foot.
- Lightly cover the seeds with approximately 1/8" of soil and gently firm the surface.
- Keep the soil surface moist until emergence, which typically takes 3-5 days (longer in colder weather).
- Harvest the crop after 4-5 weeks.
Spacing
Average spacing is 8-12” in row and 18-24” between rows.
Harvest
Harvest individual leaves by clipping them, or cut the whole head with a knife just above the root attachment. Quickly cool the harvested produce by dunking it in cold water, then drain and refrigerate.
For more information, please see links below:
- Cornell University - Endive & Escarole Guide
- Oregon State - Endive & Escarole
- Rutgers University - Endive & Escarole Guide
Downloadable Copy:
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