7 Tactics To Grow Escarole

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Want to grow escarole?

It’s easier than you think!

With these 7 simple tactics, you’ll have lush, healthy escarole in no time.

Fresh, homegrown greens are just around the corner.

Let’s get growing!

Pick the Perfect Spot

Pick the Perfect Spot
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Escarole loves a sunny spot, so find a place in your garden where it will get plenty of sunlight. It needs about 6 hours of sun each day, but it can tolerate partial shade if needed.

The soil should be well-draining. Wet, soggy soil can be a killer for escarole, so make sure there’s good drainage.

Raised beds work great if your soil isn’t ideal.

Prepare Your Soil

Water Wisely
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Before planting, make sure your soil is as welcoming as possible. Mix in some compost or well-rotted manure into the soil a few weeks before planting.

Escarole prefers a slightly acidic to neutral pH, so aim for a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. This nutrient boost will give your plants a great start and help them grow strong.

Plant Your Seeds or Seedlings

Plant Your Seeds or Seedlings
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You can start escarole from seeds or grab some seedlings from your local garden center. If you’re planting seeds, sow them about a quarter-inch deep and 12 inches apart.

If you’re transplanting seedlings, plant them at the same depth they were in their pots. Water well after planting to help them settle in and start growing.

Water Wisely

Prepare Your Soil
Image: © mollyshomeguide.com (Visualized and enhanced using AI technology)

Keep your escarole well-watered, especially during hot and dry periods. Escarole needs about 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week.

Water at the base of the plants to keep the leaves dry and avoid fungal issues. Mulching around your plants can help retain moisture and keep weeds at bay.

Feed Your Plants

Give your escarole a little extra love by feeding it a balanced fertilizer every couple of weeks. Look for something with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (like a 10-10-10 fertilizer).

This will help your plants grow lush and full. If you’re using organic methods, compost tea or fish emulsion works wonders, too!

Watch for Pests and Diseases

Keep an eye out for common pests like aphids and slugs. A strong blast of water can often remove aphids, while organic slug pellets or barrier methods can keep slugs at bay.

Also, watch for signs of disease like leaf spots or rot. Good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering can help prevent these problems.

Harvest Time!

Escarole is ready to harvest in about 85 to 100 days. You’ll know it’s time when the leaves are large and tender.

You can cut the whole plant at the base or pick outer leaves as needed. Fresh escarole is perfect for soups, salads, or a quick sauté.

Enjoy the fruits of your labor!

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