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Endive and Escarole (Cichorium endivia and C. intybos)

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Sowing:

Seed Depth:
Germination Soil Temp:
Days to Germinate   
Date to sow Indoors:
Date to sow Outdoors



1/4 inch
60 - 65 Degrees
5 - 7
8 weeks before frost
Stagger planting every 2 weeks from Spring until Fall:
March - April, September - Frost

Growing:

pH Range:
Growing Temp:
Spacing:
Watering:
Light:
Nutrient Req's:
Rotation:
Seed Longevity:


5.5 - 7.0
45 - 65 Degrees
8 - 10 inches
Moderate
Full sun, some shade
Moderate N, P and K
Avoid other lettuces
4 - 6 years

Description


Soil

Fertilizer


Planting


Cultivation Care

Companions

Varieties


Harvest

Health Benefits
Endive and escarole are actually different forms of chicory. Endive has curly, crinkled leaves and a slightly bitter taste. Escarole has a milder flavor and flatter, thicker leaves. Both are great plants for the winter garden.

Endive and escarole do well if planted in a fertile soil and is watered as needed.

The faster lettuce grows, the sweeter the taste. To encourage growth, use compost or add a balanced fertilizer and water. However keep in mind that too much nutrition can cause a bitter taste.

Directly sow tiny seeds in rows (use a stick or board as a guide) or grow in containers. Cover lightly with 1/4 inch of soil and water with a breaker to keep seeds from splashing.

To keep plants growing, water evenly when the top soil dries and withhold water as the ground begins to freeze.

Radish, strawberries, beets, broccoli, bush and pole beans, carrots, cucumber and onion

Endive: Belgian, Radicchio and Puntarelle
Escarole: Full Heart Batavium and Twinkle

Harvest outer leaves as needed; leaves should be eaten fresh. The roots can be harvested and forced in a root cellar.

Endives and escaroles are rich in vitamins such as folic acid and vitamins A and K. They are higher in fiber than lettuce.

> Back to the Vegetable Page

Source: UT Extension, PB1578 - Tennessee Master Gardener Handbook
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Programs in agriculture and natural resources, 4-H youth development, family and consumer sciences, and resource development. University of Tennessee Institute
of Agriculture, U.S. Department of Agriculture and county governments cooperating. UT Extension provides equal opportunities in programs and employment
Photo used under Creative Commons from jlastras