How to Grow Endives

Till the soil to a depth of 8 to 10 inches in an area that receives six to eight hours of direct sunlight a day. Remove roots, rocks and other debris from the soil.

Add a 2- to 4-inch layer of organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, to the area and work it into the top 6 inches of soil. Work 2 lbs. of 10-10-10 fertilizer into each 100 square feet of gardening area.

Plant endives to a depth of 1/4 inch in the spring as soon as the soil can be worked. Endive tolerates frost, so waiting until the last frost is not necessary. Space seeds four to six inches apart in rows spaced 24 inches apart. Thin to every other plant when they are 1 inch high.

Water to keep soil moist until seedlings emerge in a week to 10 days, depending on the soil temperature and weather conditions. Reduce watering to once or twice a week, when plants are 1 or 2 inches high. When soil feels dry 1 inch below the surface, water to saturate the soil to the root level.

Side-dress with 1 lb. of 10-10-10 fertilizer per 25 feet of row in midseason to boost growth. Spread the fertilizer along the row, about four inches from the base of the plants, and work it into the soil with a hoe.

Cut weeds at the soil level with a sharp hoe to avoid disrupting the roots of your plants. Keep weeds in control, as endive's shallow roots cannot compete with aggressive weeds.

Tie the tops of the outer leaves over the top of the plants when leaves begin to touch neighboring plants. This process, called blanching, keeps the sun out and causes the inner leaves to develop the characteristic creamy-white color. This improves both flavor and texture.

Cut the endive at the base with a sharp knife to harvest.