When to Plant Escarole in Webster County, IA
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.
Webster County, Iowa is in USDA Zone 4b. The average last spring frost is April 28 and the first fall frost is October 6, giving you a growing season of approximately 161 days.
At an elevation of 1,065 feet, Webster County receives approximately 30.2 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 80°F, so choose short-season varieties of Escarole to ensure they mature before fall.
Webster County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.2-7.3
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
Escarole Planting Timeline — Webster County, IA
Escarole Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 17 | Mar 17 – Mar 31 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 28 | Apr 28 – May 12 |
| Direct Sow | April 21 | Apr 21 – May 12 |
| Fall Sowing | July 14 | Jul 14 – Jul 28 |
| 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 | Transplant Outdoors 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
50–70 days
Soil pH
5.5 – 7
USDA Zone
Zone 4b
Growing Season
161 days
Growing Tips for Webster 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 Webster County, IA?
Webster County is in Zone 4b 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 Webster County, IA?
Webster County, Iowa is in USDA Hardiness Zone 4b. The average last spring frost is April 28 and first fall frost is October 6.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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