Curlesi Pelleted Endive Seed

Scientific name

Cichorium endivia

Climate

Endive and escarole are hardy, cool-weather crops that grow best around 60–65°F (16–18°C). Plant as soon as the soil can be worked; for summer plantings, choose heat-tolerant varieties.

Germination

Seed sprouts best in soil at 60–68°F (16–20°C) and can go dormant above about 77°F (25°C).

Days to maturity

Counted from transplanting; add 2–3 weeks for direct sowing.

Transplanting

The preferred method. Sow 3–4 weeks before planting out, about 4 seeds per inch in flats or in 3/4" plug cells, and barely cover with fine vermiculite. In sunny, warm weather, shade the trays so the surface stays under 75°F (24°C) until seedlings are up. Seedlings from flats can be moved 1–2" apart into cells or pots about 2 weeks later. Harden off for 2–3 days with less water and cooler air; well-hardened plants can take frost down to about 20°F (-6°C). Spacing 8–10" apart helps the hearts self-blanch.

Direct sowing

Sow about 6 seeds per foot in rows 12–18" apart, cover about 1/8" and firm lightly. Water dry soil to keep it cool and moist for even germination, and thin to 8" as soon as seedlings can be handled.

Seeding rate

At 6 seeds per foot in rows 18" apart: about 1,000 seeds per 160 ft., 5,000 per 830 ft. and 175,000 per acre.

Succession planting

Sow every 3 weeks for a steady supply.

Blanching

These varieties blanch their own hearts as they mature. For an earlier or more complete pale heart, cover the center of each plant with a 4–6" disk or plate, or tie up the outer leaves, about 3 days before harvest. Use these methods only on endive and escarole, not on other chicories.

Harvest

Cut the whole head just above the root with a knife. Cool it quickly in cold water, drain and refrigerate.

Transplants

About 500 plants per 1,000 seeds (2 seeds per cell, thinned to one).

Packet

100 seeds.

Seeds per lb.

About 30,000 on average.