How to Grow Scarole Salad King
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Scarole Salad King
Cichorium endivia var. latifolium
vegetableScarole Salad King is a broad-leafed endive variety prized for its tender, slightly bitter green leaves and crisp texture. This cool-season leafy green forms loose heads of deeply frilled, curly-edged foliage with a pale, blanched center when mature. It's an excellent salad green that can also be lightly cooked or braised.
When should you plant Scarole Salad King in your zone?
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Example Scarole Salad King timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Scarole Salad King
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Scarole Salad King
Around Jun 16≈ 60 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Scarole Salad King dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 4-9; best as a spring or fall crop in moderate climates
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Get my Scarole Salad King timeline →Growth Stages
Seedling
2-3 weeksTiny cotyledons emerge with 2-4 true leaves developing within 1-2 weeks
Keep soil consistently moist; thin seedlings to prevent crowding; provide bright light if growing indoors
Vegetative Growth
4-6 weeksRosette of increasingly large, deeply frilled leaves develops; plant expands rapidly with characteristic wavy leaf margins
Maintain consistent watering and fertilize every 3-4 weeks; thin to final spacing if direct seeded; mulch to retain moisture and cool soil
Head Formation
3-4 weeksOuter leaves enlarge and curl tightly; inner leaves begin to blanch naturally or can be manually blanched for tenderness
Begin blanching 2-3 weeks before harvest if desired by tying outer leaves upward with twine or covering with shade cloth; maintain consistent moisture
Maturity
1-2 weeks at peakCompact head forms with tender, pale center leaves; outer leaves remain green and frilly with slight bitter edge
Monitor for bolting in warm weather; harvest outer leaves selectively or cut entire head; cooler temperatures improve flavor
Post-Harvest
2-3 weeksHead may continue producing outer leaves if harvested selectively; center remains protected
Continue watering and light fertilizing for extended harvest; quality declines if temperatures exceed 75°F
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil; encourage beneficial insects like ladybugs; strong water spray to dislodge
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and
Handpick in early morning; use copper tape barriers; beer traps; encourage ground beetles; mulch management to reduce hiding spots
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Use row covers on young plants; diatomaceous earth; neem oil; reflective mulches; trap crops
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Row covers for young plants; insecticidal soap; neem oil; reflective aluminum mulch
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Yellow sticky traps; insecticidal soap; neem oil; reflective mulch; improve air circulation
Uses
Fresh Salad Greens
CulinaryThe tender, blanched inner leaves provide a delicate, slightly bitter flavor excellent for mixed green salads. The crisp texture and mild taste make it a premium addition to composed salads and gourmet presentations. [source]
Braised & Cooked Preparations
CulinaryWhole heads can be braised, sautéed, or grilled to create warm vegetable sides. Cooking mellows the bitterness and brings out a subtle sweetness. [source]
Bitter Greens in Mediterranean Cuisine
CulinaryCommon in Italian and French cooking as part of traditional dishes like puntarelle or endive gratins. The characteristic bitterness pairs well with olive oil, garlic, and anchovies. [source]
Digestive Health Support
MedicinalEndive contains inulin, a prebiotic fiber that supports gut health and beneficial bacteria growth. Traditional herbalism uses it to support liver and digestive function. [source]
Natural Chlorophyll Source
HouseholdThe dark green outer leaves are rich in chlorophyll and antioxidants, making them valuable in smoothies, juices, and health-focused meal plans. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Harvest when heads are firm and compact, typically 60-90 days after planting. For blanched leaves, tie outer leaves together 2-3 weeks before harvest and cover for 3 weeks. Cut entire head at soil line or harvest outer leaves progressively for extended yield. Best harvested in cool morning hours. Use within 2-3 days for peak crispness, or store in refrigerator at 32-40°F for up to 2 weeks.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Scarole Salad King's blanching process concentrates sweetness and reduces bitterness—the pale inner leaves develop their tender texture by being shielded from sunlight, which slows chlorophyll production.
- 🌱 Endive is an ancient crop dating back to ancient Egypt and was cultivated extensively by Renaissance-era gardeners who perfected blanching techniques still used today.
- 🌱 The characteristic slightly bitter flavor is due to compounds called sesquiterpene lactones, which are also found in related chicory and have been studied for potential anti-inflammatory properties.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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