Growing crisp endive in simple hydroponic systems: A guide
What's the story
Growing crisp endive at home with hydroponic systems is a satisfying experience for anyone who loves fresh produce.
This method bypasses the need for soil, making it cleaner and eliminating the risk of soil-borne diseases and pests.
With proper setup and care, you can have a constant supply of fresh endive without leaving your home.
System selection
Choosing the right hydroponic system
Many hydroponic systems work great for endive, including deep water culture (DWC), nutrient film technique (NFT), and ebb and flow systems.
However, DWC is highly recommended for beginners because it's super easy and low-maintenance.
This method involves suspending the plants over a nutrient solution. The roots directly take in all the essential nutrients from the water, making growth a breeze.
Nutrients mix
Preparing your nutrient solution
The secret sauce of hydroponic gardening is, well, the sauce! Or more accurately, the nutrient solution.
For endive, you'll need a well-balanced blend with nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and those crucial trace elements.
Pre-mixed options are available for purchase, or you can DIY it by dissolving water-soluble fertilizers in water.
Keep the pH of your solution in the sweet spot of 5.5 to 6.5 for happy, healthy growth.
Light & heat control
Managing light and temperature
Endive needs a lot of light - aim for 14-16 hours a day.
If you can't get enough natural sunlight, use grow lights. Just make sure to keep them about 12 inches above your plants.
Temperature is also important. Keep it cool for your endives, between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and a bit cooler at night. Anything above 75 degrees can stunt their growth.
Harvest time
Harvesting your endive
Harvest endives six weeks after planting when they reach six inches in height or leaves feel crisp to the touch.
Trim outer leaves at the base, leaving the center intact to encourage further growth, or pull out the whole plant if it is fully grown.
This way, you can maintain a continuous supply of endives from your hydroponic system.