(Cichorium intybus) Rossa Di Verona is an heirloom variety of radicchio, known for its vibrant ruby leaves that form a tight, rounded head. Ideal for cooler climates, it thrives in northern regions, making it a perfect addition to fall gardens. Light frosts enhance its sweetness, making it a delightful choice for salads or gourmet dishes.
Endive, also recognized as Escarole, features broad, curly leaves resembling lettuce heads. Its rich green color adds both visual appeal and flavor to various culinary creations. However, beware of extreme heat, which can lead to bitterness or premature bolting.
Endive, a chicory family member, likely originated in Egypt or the Mediterranean. Praised by Pliny the Elder for its purported blood-purifying and insomnia-solving properties. By 1200 AD, numerous endive varieties were recognized in Europe, with the first American mention found in an 1806 cookbook.
• Scroll down for detailed growing info •
All Nimble NiteCap Seeds are:
• Heirloom
• Organic
• Non-GMO
• Open Pollinated
• Untreated
• US Grown
• growing instructions included
• Regular testing is conducted to uphold the highest germination standards, all the while employing appropriate seed storage techniques.
Sustainable Packaging & Shipping:
• NimbleNitecap seeds are packed in eco-friendly, compostable seed packets. Seed packets are printed in house with vegetable-based inks on biodegradable, recycled materials. (Small plastic bags are infrequently used to prevent the loss of very small seeds.)
• All orders are carefully packed and shipped with tracking via USPS First Class (or Priority, if selected) in padded ECOENCLOSE recycled and reusable mailers, or recycled boxes to protect your items in transit.
Most orders ship out the same or next business day! Please note that this time may be extended during peak season.
• FREE SHIPPING on all orders of $35 or more. Flat Rate shipping no matter how many packets you order.
• DIRECTIONS •
~ sowing ~
Endive makes an excellent fall crop, since light frost sweetens the taste, and excess heat causes bitterness in the leaves or bolting. For an early summer crop, sow seeds indoors 2 months before the last spring frost; sow them 1/4" deep. When the seedlings emerge, thin them to 6" apart. Four weeks after planting them, set them outside 12" apart.
For a fall crop, direct sow seeds in July. Water the ground, scatter the seeds on the surface, then cover with 1/3" of soil. When the seedlings emerge, thin them to 12" in all directions. Areas with warmer winters may be able to plant a winter crop about two months before the last frost.
~ growing ~
Keep the soil moist to prevent toughness or a bitter taste, but avoid getting the leaves wet as this may cause rotting. Mulch helps conserve moisture and control weeds.
If desired, blanch the leaves about 2-3 weeks before harvesting by tying together the outer leaves to shade the inner part of the plant. Make sure that the leaves of the plant are completely dry before tying them, or rotting may result.
~ harvesting ~
Cut the mature head when it reaches a diameter of approximately 5".
~ seed saving ~
Endive needs to be overwintered in order to produce seed. For areas with severe winters, this requires cutting the plant down to 2" and storing the roots in a humid location in damp sand at 33-40 degrees F until spring, when they can be replanted.
Endive can survive milder winters with a thick layer of mulch. Allow the plant to flower and go to seed; when the seed heads are dry and the seeds feel dry and firm, spread them out on a surface to dry for at least 10 days.
Either plant the seed heads whole or clean them by putting them in a bag and applying pressure with a heavy weight. Store the seeds in a cool, dry place for up to eight years.
