Endive

Curly endive prefers cool weather and fertile, well-drained soil around pH 6.0-7.0. Add compost and use modest nitrogen feeding to support steady leafy growth; uniform moisture reduces stress and excessive bitterness.

Sun

Full sun to part shade

Water

Even moisture; about 1 in/week including rain

Spacing

10 in

First harvest

60–90 days

Tips

• Sow 1/4 inch deep and thin or transplant to 8-12 inches apart for full heads.
• Provide about 1 inch of water weekly, keeping moisture even without waterlogging the crown.
• Check dense leaves for slugs and remove damaged outer foliage to improve airflow.
• For a milder heart, loosely tie dry outer leaves together 7-10 days before harvest and check for rot.
• Cut a full rosette at soil level while the center is tender and before a flower stalk emerges.