Did you know that once upon a time that this root vegetable was used as a cheap substitute for coffee? This plant is linked to the dandelion family - yes, you heard us right, weeds... Unlike its a rather unfriendly garden relative, this plant produces chicons (which eventually yields endives) which are a great addition to any salad! Careful now, this plant is quite particular - it needs the right balance of warmth and humidity and requires a bit of patience.
When: Plant seeds well after the danger of frost has dissipated, in full sun.
Planting Guide: Plant 1/4-1/2" beneath the soil surface, 6-8" apart, in rows about 2' apart. Ensure adequate water and beware of neighbouring weeds. Note: Avoid Nitrogen fertilizers. Harvest: At about 130-150 days, in early fall. Roots should be about 2" long. Hold on though - you are not done there if you are after the famous resulting endive... Chicory must be 'forced' to produce the endive leaves that most salad lovers crave. What does forcing mean? Extract as indicated above, cut the leaves down to 1" and remove side shoots. Taking a tall container (taller than the longest root), and fill the base with a balanced mix of sand, peat and/or compost. Stand the chicon in the middle and continue to fill with the remaining mixture. Continue to top the container to above the crown. The chicon must be left in the dark in an area where temperatures are about 10-15 degrees celcius. After about 4 weeks, the white buds should start to show. When ready to use your endive, cut closest to the root and place back in the dark for another smaller yield.
Like all things worth waiting for, the resulting endive is full of tender flavour! Enjoy!
