Escarole greens: How to Grow, Harvest, Fertilize, and Use Escarole greens

Growing Escarole Greens: A Personal Journey

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As a gardener, there's nothing quite like watching a seedling grow into a lush, healthy plant. For me, one of the most rewarding experiences is growing escarole greens from scratch. In this article, I'll share my personal journey of growing escarole greens, from sowing seeds to harvesting the first leaves.

Why Grow Escarole Greens?

Escarole greens are a type of leafy green that's packed with nutrients and flavor. They're relatively easy to grow and can be harvested in as little as 20 days. Plus, they're a great addition to many dishes, from salads to sautés. But what really drew me to growing escarole greens was their versatility. They can be used in a variety of ways, from adding a peppery flavor to soups and stews to making a delicious pesto sauce.

Sowing the Seeds

The first step in growing escarole greens is to sow the seeds. I use a high-quality seed starting mix and sow the seeds about ¼ inch deep in a seed tray or small pots. I cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil and keep the tray or pots in a warm, bright location. It's essential to provide adequate light for the seeds to germinate, so I place the tray or pots near a south-facing window or under grow lights.

Germination and Transplanting

It usually takes 7-10 days for the seeds to germinate, and once they do, I transplant them into larger pots or directly into the garden. I use a well-draining potting mix and a container that's at least 6-8 inches deep. The escarole greens will need a trellis or other support to grow upwards, so I make sure to provide that in the pot or in the garden.

Watering and Care

Watering and care are crucial when growing escarole greens. I make sure to water the plants regularly, but not too much. The escarole greens prefer moist soil, but if the soil is too wet, it can lead to root rot. I also fertilize the plants regularly with a balanced fertilizer. It's also essential to keep an eye out for pests and diseases, such as aphids and powdery mildew.

Harvesting the Greens

The moment of truth – harvesting the greens! I wait until the first leaves are about 4-6 inches tall and the center of the plant is starting to form. I snip off the leaves with scissors or pinch them off with my fingers, making sure to leave the center of the plant intact. This will encourage the plant to continue growing and producing new leaves.

Using Your Escarole Greens

Now that you have a harvest of escarole greens, you can use them in a variety of ways. Here are some of my favorite ways to use them:

• Add them to salads for a peppery flavor
• Sauté them with garlic and lemon for a delicious side dish
• Use them in soups and stews for added nutrition
• Make a pesto sauce with the leaves, garlic, and olive oil

Tips and Variations

Here are some tips and variations to consider when growing escarole greens:

• Grow them in a greenhouse: If you have a greenhouse, you can grow escarole greens year-round, regardless of the weather outside.
• Grow them in a cold frame: If you don't have a greenhouse, you can grow escarole greens in a cold frame, which will provide protection from frost and cold temperatures.
• Grow them in a container: If you don't have space in the garden, you can grow escarole greens in a container on a balcony or patio.
• Try different varieties: There are several varieties of escarole greens, including 'Astro', 'Cavolo Nero', and 'Rucola'. Try different varieties to see which one you like best.

Growing escarole greens is a rewarding experience that can add a new dimension to your cooking. With a little care and attention, you can enjoy fresh, delicious greens all season long.