Louviers
ActiveCichorium endivia L. · Endive
Cultivation
Winter covering of endive
Cichorium endivia L.
For endive, covering is used for two purposes: to protect the cold-hardy crop from autumn frosts and as a blanching technique to reduce the bitterness of the leaves.
In the reference 19 varieties crop Endive, where this is mentioned in the description.
Endive is capable of withstanding short-term frosts down to -8 °C; however, to extend the growing season, plastic tunnels, heeling in plants with a root ball in greenhouses, or covering with dry leaves are used. Since the crop is often grown as an annual, full overwintering is not required.
The main agrotechnical practice is blanching, in which light access to the center of the rosette is blocked for 2–5 weeks. This is achieved by using light-proof covers, black films, or tying the leaves with twine, which makes the plant's taste more delicate and less bitter.
General information about the subject — on the page Winter covering.
Varieties of Endive mentioned in the description
Selection based on the description text, not on official evaluation: these data are absent from registers. For specific variety details, please refer to its profile.