Endive Seeds - Belgian Witloof

(Cichorium intybus) 115 days to harvest roots.

Additional 35 days for greens. *See description*

Belgian Endive (Witloof Chicory) is the classic variety used for growing tangy, slightly bitter endive buds or chicons. A highly sought after delicacy and favourite ingredient for top chefs, these pale green, tightly shaped cones grow in 2 stages. First, their roots are grown, in the same way as other root vegetables. Then, roots are harvested and sprouted during the Winter or Spring in total darkness, this is where endive magic happens! At this stage, the chicons will mature in 30-35 days. Belgian Endives are a true treat, both in the kitchen and as a fun, unique growing adventure!   

GROWING INSTRUCTIONS

STEP 1: GROWING ROOTS

TIMING: Direct sow outdoors in mid Spring.

GERMINATION: 7-21 days. Keep soil moist until they sprout. 

SEEDING: Sow seeds 1/4” deep. Thin plants 2” apart. Space rows 16”-24” apart. 

GROWING: Deep, loose soil and well weeded rows are a must! Water regularly until well established. 

HARVESTING: Gently dig up roots in the fall, after a light frost is okay. Do not wash. Remove greens. Store roots in the fridge or a root cellar for 6-10 weeks.  After the cold period, roots are used to force/grow endive chicons during Winter/Spring.

STEP 2: GROWING ENDIVE CHICONS (GREENS) FROM ROOTS

Plant roots indoors in a deep pot filled with moist soil. Place pot in total darkness. Endive chicons will grow in 30-35 days.

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Available direct from Incredible Seeds, a Canadian Heirloom and Heritage Seed Company, offering only the best natural, non-GMO, open pollinated and untreated seeds, located in Mi'kma'ki / Nova Scotia, Canada.

Witloof Chicory roots mature in 115 days and are an open pollinated endive variety.