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Growing Red Treviso Endive in the Vegetable Garden

Red Treviso chicory thrives in cool conditions and is usually sown for fall and winter harvests. In most climates, direct-sow outdoors in late summer so plants mature before cool weather sets in. Sow seeds 0.25-0.5 inch deep in rows 12-18 inches apart, keeping the seedbed evenly moist until seedlings emerge, typically in 4-10 days at 55-70 F.

Once seedlings are a few inches tall, thin to 8-12 inches between plants so each head has room to elongate and firm up. Rich, well-drained soil and consistent moisture help produce tender leaves and solid heads. Excess heat or drought can encourage bolting and stronger bitterness, so aim for steady growth and, where summers are hot, time sowings for late-season production.

Harvesting of Red Treviso Endive

For baby leaf mixes, begin harvesting outer leaves as they open, taking a few leaves from each plant while allowing the center to continue growing. Outer leaves are typically ready about 70-100 days after sowing, depending on conditions.

For full heads, harvest when the elongated heads feel firm, and the leaves have turned rich red with white ribs in cool weather. Cut plants 1-2 inches above the soil line with a sharp knife, leaving the roots in the ground to encourage regrowth for additional cuttings. Leaves can be used raw, lightly grilled, roasted, or braised, and can even be dried and blended into coffee-style beverages.

About Red Treviso Endive Garden Seeds

Also known as Rossa di Treviso or Rouge de Treviso, Red Treviso is a famous radicchio-type chicory from the Treviso region of northern Italy. Plants form long, narrow leaves that resemble a small romaine, but color up to deep ruby red with crisp white ribs when grown in cool weather.

Red Treviso brings bold color and complex flavor to salad mixes, antipasti, and grilled vegetable platters. Its tart, pleasantly bitter taste balances rich dressings, cheeses, and meats, and the variety is also valued for traditional forcing techniques that produce tender winter chicons from dug roots.

Tips From Our Gardeners

"Sow Red Treviso for fall harvest so heads can color up in cool nights. Thin generously, keep soil evenly moist, and cut firm heads a couple of inches above the soil to encourage tasty regrowth."

- Jerry Sawyer, True Leaf Market Writer

Red Treviso Endive Seeds Per Package:

• 2 g Packet - Approximately 200 Seeds
• 0.25 oz - Bulk - Approximately 6,375 Seeds
• 1 oz - Bulk - Approximately 25,500 Seeds
• 4 oz - Bulk - Approximately 102,000 Seeds
• 1 lb - Wholesale - Approximately 408,000 Seeds
• 5 lb - Wholesale - Approximately 2,040,000 Seeds
• 25 lb - Wholesale - Approximately 10,200,000 Seeds

Non-GMO Red Treviso Endive seeds are available for Fast Free Shipping on qualifying orders.