When to Plant Endive in Los Alamos County, NM
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.
Los Alamos County, New Mexico is in USDA Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is May 10 and the first fall frost is October 7, giving you a growing season of approximately 150 days.
At an elevation of 5,220 feet, Los Alamos County receives approximately 12.1 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly sandy loam soil. Summer highs average 87°F, providing good warmth for Endive during the growing season. Sandy soil warms quickly in spring — great for early planting — but Endive will need more frequent watering and organic matter to retain nutrients. With low rainfall, drip irrigation is essential for growing Endive successfully. Mulch heavily to conserve soil moisture.
Los Alamos County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sandy Loam
Soil pH
7-8.6
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 10/10 — consider drought-tolerant varieties and mulching
Endive Planting Timeline — Los Alamos County, NM
Endive Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | April 5 | Apr 5 – Apr 19 |
| Transplant Outdoors | May 10 | May 10 – May 24 |
| Direct Sow | April 26 | Apr 26 – May 17 |
| Fall Sowing | July 29 | Jul 29 – Aug 12 |
| Harvest | June 28 | Jun 28 – Aug 2 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 6" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | Start Indoors Direct Sow |
| May | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| June | Harvest |
| July | Fall Sowing Harvest |
| August | Fall Sowing Harvest |
| 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 6a
Growing Season
150 days
Growing Tips for Los Alamos 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 Los Alamos County, NM?
Los Alamos County is in Zone 6a with an average last frost of May 10. Plan your Endive planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Los Alamos County, NM?
Los Alamos County, New Mexico is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is May 10 and first fall frost is October 7.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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