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PLANTING INSTRUCTIONSCurly endive should ideally be sown in spring or autumn for optimum growth. Sow the seeds about ½ inches deep in the soil. The ideal germination temperature 20-22 °C(68-72 °F). Light, rich and well-drained soil is best to grow curly endives. Warm temperatures can affect the taste of curly endive and may make them bitter. Two to three hours of sunlight in a day will be best to grow the endives.GROWING REQUIREMENTSPESTSAphids, flea beetles, thrips, and loopers are some of the commonly found pests that may harm the endive leaves. Row covers, a strong jet of water, neem or canola oil can help deter these pests away. In addition to this, fungus due to excessive moisture can cause bottom rot, blight, and downy mildew in the endive plant which can be managed by ensuring proper drainage, avoiding irrigation close to harvest and ploughing the soil well before planting.SOILCurly endive greens grow best in light, rich and well-drained soil. Adding natural compost will improve the quality of compost by a great deal. Dry soil can cause the plant to bolt so optimum soil moisture must be maintained. The ideal soil pH for growing curly endives should range between 6 to 7.SPOTAlthough endive prefers full sun but may require to be protected with some cover in direct heat.WATERINGEndive can turn bitter in dry soil, so regular watering is essential to preserve the signature earthy flavour of the endive greens. However, be cautious so as not to wet the foliage since that may lead to fungal diseases. It’s best to water at soil level.HOW TO HARVESTOnce the curly endive leaves reach the height of 4-6 inches, you can start harvesting them. Cut the leaves off at the root crown level with a pair of gardening scissors. In case you would like to have a milder tasting batch of curly endive greens, you can either shift the potted endive container to a shaded place or cover the plant with a dark cloth about two weeks before harvest. This process is called blanching and can reduce the bitter flavour significantly.