Start indoors or direct sow?

Start indoors and transplant for a dependable early crop, or direct sow into a prepared bed in cool weather. Endive tolerates transplanting well when seedlings are young.

When to start Endive seeds

Start indoors 4 to 6 weeks before the last spring frost, or direct sow 2 to 4 weeks before that date. For fall harvest, sow in mid- to late summer according to the local expected first fall frost.

How to sow the seeds

Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep in sterile seed-starting mix in cell packs or small pots with drainage. Cover lightly and keep the surface evenly moist until seedlings emerge.

Germination

Endive usually germinates in 5 to 10 days. A soil temperature near 60 to 75 F and steady moisture support good emergence.

Seedling care

Give indoor seedlings bright light, moderate temperatures, and water whenever the mix is beginning to dry at the surface. Thin to one seedling per cell, avoid waterlogged media, and provide airflow to prevent damping off.

Transplanting & hardening off

Harden plants off for 7 to 10 days before planting in the garden when the soil is workable and plants have several true leaves. Transplant without burying the crown, spacing plants about 10 to 12 inches apart.

Tips

Make small successive sowings for a longer harvest window. If growing a blanching type, follow the variety instructions and keep leaves dry when tying them around the center.

General seed-starting guidance for US home gardens; timing depends on your local frost dates and variety. Page updated Aug 4, 2026.