Cichorium endivia

Sowing and growing guidance

Cichorium endivia seeds germinate readily in a fine, moist, well-drained seedbed. Sow as soon as soil is workable in full sun to light shade, keeping soil consistently moist for steady growth. Pause during hot spells to reduce bolting; sow again as days shorten for an autumn harvest, with autumn to winter sowing possible in mild climates. Thin or transplant to allow room for compact to medium heads, following packet spacing guidance. Fertile soil and regular moisture support tender growth; mulch helps retain even moisture. Provide light shade during heat if needed. Harvest when heads feel firm, or pick outer leaves to extend the cropping period.

• Sowing window: as soon as soil is workable; pause in hot spells; sow again as days shorten; autumn to winter in mild climates.
• Light and soil: full sun to light shade; fertile, well-drained soil kept evenly moist.
• Spacing: thin or transplant to allow room for heads; follow packet guidance.
• Container suitable: grows well in deep containers with regular, even watering.
• Edible: grown for tender leaves; harvest outer leaves or whole heads when firm.

How do you grow endive from seed?

Sow Cichorium endivia seeds into finely prepared, moist soil when conditions are cool. Cover lightly, about 5 mm deep, as the seed is small, and keep the surface evenly moist until emergence, which typically occurs in 7–14 days in cool conditions. Thin seedlings to allow heads to form, leaving about 20–30 cm between plants. For transplants, raise seedlings in modules and set them out while young and not root-bound to reduce stress. Maintain steady moisture and use a light mulch to keep soil cool and suppress weeds; avoid waterlogging and prolonged heat.

When should endive seeds be sown outdoors?

Sow as soon as the soil is workable after the last frost for an early crop, but pause during hot spells, as heat can impede germination and promote bolting. Resume sowing as days shorten and temperatures moderate for an autumn harvest. In mild climates, sowing from autumn into winter is feasible, provided growth is steady and plants are protected from extreme cold. Succession sow every 2–3 weeks during suitable cool periods to spread harvests, adjusting frequency to how quickly heads size up in your conditions.

What soil and sun do endive plants need?

Endive prefers full sun to light shade, with some afternoon shade helpful during warmer periods to keep plants from stress. Grow in a fertile, well-drained soil that holds consistent moisture; incorporate organic matter to improve structure and water retention without causing soggy conditions. Aim to keep the root zone evenly moist from sowing to harvest, as fluctuations can lead to bitterness or bolting. A neutral to slightly alkaline pH is generally suitable, and regular, moderate feeding supports steady growth without producing overly lush, weak foliage.

What are spacing recommendations for endive?

Allow enough room for heads to develop fully. Space plants about 20–30 cm apart in rows 30–45 cm apart, adjusting slightly based on whether you are growing frisée (curly types) or broader-leaved escarole. Thinning early helps maintain airflow, reduces competition for moisture, and encourages uniform head formation. In tighter layouts intended for baby leaves, closer spacing is possible, but for full heads the wider end of the range helps achieve firm, well-filled plants with fewer disease issues.

How can bolting be prevented in endive?

Time sowings for cool weather, as heat and drought are primary triggers for bolting. Keep soil consistently moist with light, regular watering and a mulch to moderate temperature swings. Provide light shade during hot spells, avoid overcrowding, and transplant seedlings while still small to limit shock. Fertilise modestly to maintain even growth rather than rapid flushes, and harvest promptly once heads are ready. Where available, using strains described as bolt-tolerant can further reduce the risk in warmer conditions.

Can endive grow in containers?

Yes, endive performs well in pots and troughs provided there is good drainage and enough volume for roots. Use a high-quality, free-draining potting mix and containers at least 20–30 cm deep; allow roughly 20–25 cm per plant for full heads, or closer spacing for baby leaves. Water consistently, as containers dry faster than beds, and position in full sun to light shade, shifting to a slightly shadier spot during heat. A slow-release or light, regular feeding supports steady growth without creating waterlogged conditions.

Our growing guidance summarises widely used horticultural practices and is intended as a general reference. Results can vary with microclimate, soil structure, exposure, and seasonal timing (for example, after last frost or when soil is workable). Where details matter—such as sowing depth, spacing, or days to maturity—refer to the individual product page, which includes the most specific instructions available for that item. Adapt recommendations to local conditions, including drainage, temperature swings, and irrigation practices.

Cultivation Notes for Endive

Cichorium endivia seeds thrive in cool conditions. Sow after last frost or when soil is workable and temperatures are mild. For steady supply, succession sowings at 2–3 week intervals while days remain cool. Cover lightly, keep evenly moist; seedlings prefer fine, well-drained soil. Ideal germination 15–20°C. Thin to 25–30 cm; rows 30–45 cm. Provide light shade during warm spells to reduce bolting. In mild climates, autumn sowing may be possible. Harvest as loose leaves or when heads tighten. For internal blanching, tie outer leaves 7–10 days before harvest, ensuring foliage is dry to reduce rot risk. Companion spacing with other cool-season greens helps maximise bed use. The link below leads to the parent source for catalog access and broader seed information related to this crop.