When to Plant Escarole in LaGrange County, IN
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.
LaGrange County, Indiana is in USDA Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is April 28 and the first fall frost is October 16, giving you a growing season of approximately 171 days.
At an elevation of 651 feet, LaGrange County receives approximately 41.5 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 87°F, providing good warmth for Escarole during the growing season.
LaGrange 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
Water stress score is 6/10 — consider drought-tolerant varieties and mulching
Escarole Planting Timeline — LaGrange County, IN
Escarole Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 24 | Mar 24 – Apr 7 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 28 | Apr 28 – May 12 |
| Direct Sow | April 14 | Apr 14 – May 5 |
| Fall Sowing | August 7 | Aug 7 – Aug 21 |
| Harvest | June 23 | Jun 23 – Jul 21 |
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 Direct Sow |
| 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
50–70 days
Soil pH
5.5 – 7
USDA Zone
Zone 5b
Growing Season
171 days
Growing Tips for LaGrange County
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
Level Up Your Garden
Escarole in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Escarole in LaGrange County, IN?
LaGrange County is in Zone 5b with an average last frost of April 28. Plan your Escarole planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is LaGrange County, IN?
LaGrange County, Indiana is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is April 28 and first fall frost is October 16.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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