When to Plant Endive in Ada County, ID
Endive is a leafy green with a slightly bitter flavor, available in curly (frisee) and broad-leaved (escarole) types. It adds texture and complexity to salads.
Ada County, Idaho is in USDA Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 23 and the first fall frost is October 16, giving you a growing season of approximately 176 days.
At an elevation of 4,372 feet, Ada County receives approximately 19.8 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly loam soil. Summer highs average 90°F, providing good warmth for Endive during the growing season. With low rainfall, drip irrigation is essential for growing Endive successfully. Mulch heavily to conserve soil moisture.
Ada County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.4-7.7
Drainage
Well Drained
Plant Planting Risk Windows
Percentages indicate frost risk at transplant. The 70% safe window means there is a 30% chance of frost after transplant — suitable for cold-hardy crops or gardeners with frost protection. The 90% safe window is best for tender plants.
Plant Water Budget
Water stress score is 8/10 — consider drought-tolerant varieties and mulching
Endive Planting Timeline — Ada County, ID
Endive Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 19 | Mar 19 – Apr 2 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 23 | Apr 23 – May 7 |
| Direct Sow | April 9 | Apr 9 – Apr 30 |
| Fall Sowing | August 7 | Aug 7 – Aug 21 |
| Harvest | June 11 | Jun 11 – Jul 16 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 6" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Start Indoors |
| April | Start Indoors Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| May | Transplant Outdoors |
| June | Harvest |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Fall Sowing |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Partial Shade (3-6 hours)
Water
Moderate — regular watering
Days to Maturity
45–65 days
Soil pH
5.5 – 7
USDA Zone
Zone 6b
Growing Season
176 days
Growing Tips for Ada County
Sow seeds directly in spring or fall. Blanch heads by tying outer leaves together 2-3 weeks before harvest to reduce bitterness. Keep soil evenly moist.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Level Up Your Garden
Endive in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Endive in Ada County, ID?
Ada County is in Zone 6b with an average last frost of April 23. Plan your Endive planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Ada County, ID?
Ada County, Idaho is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 23 and first fall frost is October 16.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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