When to Plant Escarole in Flathead County, MT
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.
Flathead County, Montana is in USDA Zone 5a. The average last spring frost is June 3 and the first fall frost is September 10, giving you a growing season of approximately 99 days.
At an elevation of 6,233 feet, Flathead County receives approximately 20.7 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly loam soil. Summer highs average 87°F, providing good warmth for Escarole during the growing season.
Flathead County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.6-8.4
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
Escarole Planting Timeline — Flathead County, MT
Escarole Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | April 29 | Apr 29 – May 13 |
| Transplant Outdoors | June 3 | Jun 3 – Jun 17 |
| Direct Sow | May 20 | May 20 – Jun 10 |
| Fall Sowing | July 2 | Jul 2 – Jul 16 |
| Harvest | July 29 | Jul 29 – Aug 26 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 6" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | Start Indoors |
| May | Start Indoors Direct Sow |
| June | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| July | Fall Sowing Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| 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 5a
Growing Season
99 days
Growing Tips for Flathead 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 Flathead County, MT?
Flathead County is in Zone 5a with an average last frost of June 3. Plan your Escarole planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Flathead County, MT?
Flathead County, Montana is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5a. The average last spring frost is June 3 and first fall frost is September 10.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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