Belgian Endive (Witloof) in Zone 6a & 6b

Cichorium intybus

When to plant belgian endive (witloof) in zone 6b

Zones 6a and 6b share the same average frost dates in our data, so this page covers both.

Method: Direct sow: Direct-sow outside. Belgian Endive (Witloof) doesn't transplant well, or doesn't need the extra time indoors.

Spacing: 4 per square foot (square-foot-gardening spacing). Mature height: 0.5-1 ft.

Belgian endive, also called witloof, is a two-stage crop. It's grown in the garden through the regular season for its root, like a chicory-family parsnip, then dug and forced indoors in total darkness to produce the pale, tightly furled chicons sold in stores as Belgian endive.

How belgian endive (witloof) fits zone 6's season

Zone 6b's frost-free window runs about 173 days, from April 25 to October 15. Belgian Endive (Witloof) needs about 120 days from sowing to first harvest.

Good companions

No standout companions recorded yet for Belgian Endive (Witloof).

Where to buy belgian endive seeds

• Botanical Interests
• True Leaf Market
• Burpee
• High Mowing Organic Seeds

See why we recommend these suppliers →

As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Some links on this page also go to other retailers we may earn a commission from as an affiliate, at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products with a genuine consensus of positive, independent reviews. See the sources cited on each item.

See it growing

Search YouTube for "growing belgian endive (witloof)" videos → (a live search, not a hand-picked video; results vary and aren't vetted by us)

← Back to the full zone 6b calendar · Full companion planting guide · Full plant profile · Plan your beds in the Garden Designer →

Pin this for later

Growing Belgian Endive (Witloof) in USDA zone 6b: when to start seeds indoors, when to direct-sow, and when to expect a harvest.

Save to Pinterest