Walloon curly endive - Organic seeds

Walloon Curly Endive – Robust and Frost-Resistant

The Walloon curly endive is a regional variety known for its voluminous, sturdy heads and excellent cold resistance. This plant is ideal for harvesting in the autumn and winter months and can be easily blanched for a milder taste.

Growing Tips for Walloon Curly Endive

Sowing Sow the Walloon curly endive in June or July in a nursery, or directly in the ground in July, with rows spaced 40 cm apart. A month after sowing, transplant the young plants at a distance of 30 cm from each other. The plant prefers well-drained, humus-rich soil and a sunny location.

Care and Disease This plant requires little maintenance, other than some watering during dry periods to prevent premature seed setting. The Walloon curly endive is sensitive to slugs, so keep an eye out and take measures to control them.

Harvesting The curly endive is usually ready to harvest 70 to 90 days after sowing. Start by harvesting the outer leaves once the plants are large enough. To reduce the natural bitterness of the leaves, blanch them a few days before harvesting. You can do this by placing a pot over the plant to block light, or by tying the leaves together or covering them with an opaque tunnel. Blanching takes about ten days.

Tips and Tricks The Walloon curly endive grows well when paired with radishes, beans, turnips, carrots, and peas.

This versatile and frost-hardy plant is an excellent choice for a sustainable garden, providing a nutritious harvest in the colder months.