242 Gardening 



inches in length, they should be drawn together and tied 

 with soft cord or with raffia, in order to blanch the inner 

 leaves. One variety known as Escarole has broad 

 leaves and is less bitter than the cut-leaved sorts. 



With the approach of freezing temperatures in the 

 northern planting zones, endive may be stored. Dig 

 up the plants, keeping a ball of dirt in place about the 

 roots, and pack close together in a cold frame or in boxes 

 that are .placed in a cool cellar. Keep the soil moist, 

 but be sure that the leafy portion is kept dry and well 

 exposed to the air to prevent rotting. Plants can readily 

 be kept in storage in good condition for a period of 

 at least 6 weeks ; with special care, under most suitable 

 conditions, they may be kept much longer. 



Witloof chicory or French endive. When properly 

 grown, this plant yields a most delicious and mildly 

 bitter salad for use during the winter months. Al- 

 though easily grown, this crop has not become well 

 known in American gardens ; but it has long been a 

 favorite salad in European countries. The variety 

 known as the Witloof is especially to be recommended. 

 In the northern states, sow seeds during June or July 

 in shallow drills about 1 2 inches apart. Thin the young 

 seedlings to stand 8 inches apart. 



The green leaves produced in the field are not used 

 as food, as are those of the curled endive, but a new crop 

 of leaves is forced from the roots in the following manner : 

 The roots, which should resemble those of the parsnip 

 in shape and size, are dug before severe frosts occur. 

 Those not needed for immediate forcing are stored in cold 

 frames, in pits, or in a cool room of a cellar, so that 



