When can I plant endive outside?

Direct sow or transplant 2 weeks before your last spring frost.

How long until endive is ready to harvest?

45-60 days. Head is full and leaves are crisp; blanch by tying outer leaves over center for 2-3 weeks before harvest

When to Plant Endive

Cichorium endivia

leafy_greenZones 4–9intermediate

Slightly bitter green with curly or broad leaves. Adds complexity to salads and can be braised. Blanching the inner leaves reduces bitterness for milder flavor.

Planting calendar

Direct sow / transplant

2 weeks before your last spring frost.

Fall planting

8 weeks before your first fall frost.

Better as fall crop; blanch inner leaves by covering to reduce bitterness

Spacing & harvest

Plant spacing: 8-12 inches
Row spacing: 18-24 inches
Days to harvest: 45-60 days
Ready when: Head is full and leaves are crisp; blanch by tying outer leaves over center for 2-3 weeks before harvest

Companion planting

Plant near

Radish — Quick-growing radishes mark rows and loosen soil

Get endive planting dates for your exact zone

Lawn Guardian turns this guidance into a schedule timed to your USDA zone and this week's actual weather — and adapts every time you log what you've done.

Get your free plan

Sources: Purdue University Turfgrass Science: Use Growing Degree Days to Better Time Your Applications · University of Missouri Extension: Cool-Season Grasses: Lawn Maintenance Calendar · University of Minnesota Extension: Pre-emergent Herbicides for Crabgrass Control in Lawns