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When to plant Escarole in Yulee, FL

In Zone 9a (Yulee), direct-sow Escarole between January 24 and February 14 for spring, after the February 14 last-frost mark. A second sowing from October 6 to October 20 extends the harvest into fall.

When to Plant Escarole in Yulee, FL

Escarole is a broad-leaved endive with slightly bitter, sturdy leaves. The outer leaves are more bitter while the blanched heart is tender and mild.

Yulee, Florida is in USDA Zone 9a. The average last spring frost is February 14 and the first fall frost is December 1, giving you a growing season of approximately 290 days.

At an elevation of 408 feet, Nassau County receives approximately 57.9 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly sand soil. Summer highs average 101°F, so Escarole may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. Sandy soil warms quickly in spring — great for early planting — but Escarole will need more frequent watering and organic matter to retain nutrients. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Escarole root diseases.

Yulee, FL (Zone 9a) Year-round
290 days
Last Spring Frost February 14
290 growing days
First Fall Frost December 1

Yulee Soil Profile

Soil Type

Sand

Soil pH

5.2-5.8

Drainage

Well Drained

Monthly Watering Guide for Escarole

Escarole needs approximately 1 inches of water per week (4.3" per month). Here's how your county's rainfall compares month by month.

Month Escarole Needs Rainfall You Supplement Action
Jan 2.8" 0" ❄️ Dormant
Feb 4.3" 3.2" 1.1" 💧 Light watering
Mar 4.3" 3.7" 0.6" 💧 Light watering
Apr 4.3" 2.9" 1.4" 💧 Light watering
May 4.3" 4.1" 0.2" 💧 Light watering
Jun 4.3" 6.6" 0" ✅ Rainfall sufficient
Jul 4.3" 7.9" 0" ✅ Rainfall sufficient
Aug 4.3" 8.7" 0" ✅ Rainfall sufficient
Sep 4.3" 7.9" 0" ✅ Rainfall sufficient
Oct 4.3" 5.3" 0" ✅ Rainfall sufficient
Nov 4.3" 2.2" 2.1" 💧 Light watering
Dec 4.3" 2.5" 1.8" 💧 Light watering

Water needs are for active growing months only (Feb–Dec in Nassau County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.

Escarole Planting Timeline — Yulee, FL

Escarole Planting Calendar

Activity When Date Range
Start Indoors January 17 Jan 17 – Jan 31
Transplant Outdoors February 14 Feb 14 – Feb 28
Direct Sow January 24 Jan 24 – Feb 14
Harvest April 11 Apr 11 – May 9
Fall Sowing October 6 Oct 6 – Oct 20

Plant 0.5" deep · 6" apart · Rows 12" apart

Month-by-Month Timeline

MonthActivities
January Start Indoors Direct Sow
February Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow
March
April Harvest
May Harvest
June
July
August
September
October Fall Sowing
November
December

Growing Conditions

☀️ Sun

Partial Shade (3-6 hours)

💧 Water

Moderate — regular watering

📅 Days to Maturity

50–70 days

🧪 Soil pH

Needs 5.5–7 · Your soil: N/A

🗺️ USDA Zone

Zone 9a

📆 Growing Season

290 days in Nassau County

Growing Tips for Yulee

Direct sow in spring or late summer. Blanch heads by tying outer leaves together or covering with a pot for 2 weeks before harvest. Excellent braised or in soups.

Companion Planting

Good Companions

Avoid Planting Near

  • Fennel

Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →

When should I plant Escarole in Yulee, FL?

In Yulee, FL, plant Escarole after the last frost (around February 14) and before the first frost (around December 1). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.

What growing zone is Yulee, FL for Escarole?

Yulee sits in USDA Zone 9a. Escarole grows reliably in zones 3a through 10b, so it's a good fit here.

Can Escarole grow in Yulee's climate?

Yes — Escarole grows well in Yulee's temperate climate. Yulee averages a 291-day frost-free season, with last frost around February 14 and first frost around December 1.

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Your Nassau County Garden Planner — Free

A 22-page printable planner built for Nassau County (Zone 9a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.

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Data sources: USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map (2023), NOAA 30-Year Climate Normals. Frost dates are based on 50% probability averages for Nassau County, FL. Local conditions may vary. Last updated: July 2026.