When to Plant Endive in Pepin County, WI
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.
Pepin County, Wisconsin is in USDA Zone 4a. The average last spring frost is May 2 and the first fall frost is October 7, giving you a growing season of approximately 158 days.
At an elevation of 1,052 feet, Pepin County receives approximately 38.9 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 80°F, so choose short-season varieties of Endive to ensure they mature before fall.
Pepin County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.9-7.1
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
Endive Planting Timeline — Pepin County, WI
Endive Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 21 | Mar 21 – Apr 4 |
| Transplant Outdoors | May 2 | May 2 – May 16 |
| Direct Sow | April 25 | Apr 25 – May 16 |
| Fall Sowing | July 15 | Jul 15 – Jul 29 |
| Harvest | June 20 | Jun 20 – Jul 25 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 6" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Start Indoors |
| April | Start Indoors Direct Sow |
| May | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| June | Harvest |
| July | Fall Sowing Harvest |
| August | — |
| 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 4a
Growing Season
158 days
Growing Tips for Pepin 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 Pepin County, WI?
Pepin County is in Zone 4a with an average last frost of May 2. Plan your Endive planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Pepin County, WI?
Pepin County, Wisconsin is in USDA Hardiness Zone 4a. The average last spring frost is May 2 and first fall frost is October 7.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Pepin County gardeners in Zone 4a organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
Get Your Free Garden Planner →Free download. Plan your entire garden season in minutes.