Troubleshooting
Belgian Endive (Witloof) problems — and how to fix them
Belgian Endive (Witloof) (Cichorium intybus var. foliosum 'Witloof') is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Forked or fanged roots
Stony, recently manured or shallow soil splits the taproot, ruining it for forcing. Grow in deep, loose, stone-free ground and avoid fresh manure before sowing.
Green, bitter chicons
Any light reaching the forcing buds turns them green and harshly bitter. Force in total darkness, covering roots with an opaque bin, black bag or deep layer of sand.
Rot during forcing
Overly wet or warm forcing conditions rot the chicons before they firm up. Keep the medium just moist and the temperature around 10-18°C with some ventilation.
Premature bolting in the field
Sowing too early or drought stress makes plants flower instead of building a root. Sow from late spring to early summer and keep moisture even.
Prevent belgian endive (witloof) problems before they start
Most belgian endive (witloof) issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
- Common chicory problems — the species this cultivar belongs to
- What's wrong with my plant? — the diagnosis apps compared
- Belgian Endive (Witloof) watering schedule
- Belgian Endive (Witloof) light requirements
- Best soil mix for belgian endive (witloof)
- Belgian Endive (Witloof) temperature & humidity
- Full belgian endive (witloof) care guide
Looking for belgian endive (witloof) in general rather than its problems? Read the full belgian endive (witloof) care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Belgian Endive (Witloof) problems — FAQ
Why is my belgian endive (witloof) forked or fanged roots?
Stony, recently manured or shallow soil splits the taproot, ruining it for forcing. Grow in deep, loose, stone-free ground and avoid fresh manure before sowing.
Why is my belgian endive (witloof) green, bitter chicons?
Any light reaching the forcing buds turns them green and harshly bitter. Force in total darkness, covering roots with an opaque bin, black bag or deep layer of sand.
Why is my belgian endive (witloof) rot during forcing?
Overly wet or warm forcing conditions rot the chicons before they firm up. Keep the medium just moist and the temperature around 10-18°C with some ventilation.
Why is my belgian endive (witloof) premature bolting in the field?
Sowing too early or drought stress makes plants flower instead of building a root. Sow from late spring to early summer and keep moisture even.