Planting Instructions for Endive Seeds
- Location: Choose a site with full sun to partial shade and well-drained, fertile soil.
- When to Plant:
- Spring Crop: Sow Todd’s Seeds Endive seeds 2–4 weeks before the last frost.
- Fall Crop: Sow in mid to late summer, about 60–90 days before the first expected frost.
- Soil Prep: Loosen soil and mix in compost or aged manure. Ideal soil pH is 6.0–7.0.
- Sowing Depth: Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep.
- Spacing: Sow seeds 1 inch apart in rows spaced 12–18 inches apart. Thin seedlings to 6–12 inches apart, depending on variety.
- Watering: Keep soil consistently moist, especially during germination (7–10 days) and dry periods.
- Care: Mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds. Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer if growth slows.
- Blanching (Optional): For less bitter leaves, tie outer leaves together 7–10 days before harvest to blanch the inner leaves.
- Harvest: Harvest when heads are firm and reach full size, typically 85–100 days after sowing. Cut at the base with a sharp knife.