When to Plant Escarole in Park 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.
Park County, Montana is in USDA Zone 4b. The average last spring frost is May 24 and the first fall frost is September 20, giving you a growing season of approximately 119 days.
At an elevation of 6,994 feet, Park County receives approximately 22.2 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly loam soil. Summer highs average 80°F, so choose short-season varieties of Escarole to ensure they mature before fall.
Park County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.5-7.6
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 8/10 — consider drought-tolerant varieties and mulching
Escarole Planting Timeline — Park County, MT
Escarole Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | April 12 | Apr 12 – Apr 26 |
| Transplant Outdoors | May 24 | May 24 – Jun 7 |
| Direct Sow | May 17 | May 17 – Jun 7 |
| Fall Sowing | June 28 | Jun 28 – Jul 12 |
| Harvest | July 19 | Jul 19 – Aug 16 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 6" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | Start Indoors |
| May | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| June | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow Fall Sowing |
| 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 4b
Growing Season
119 days
Growing Tips for Park 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 Park County, MT?
Park County is in Zone 4b with an average last frost of May 24. Plan your Escarole planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Park County, MT?
Park County, Montana is in USDA Hardiness Zone 4b. The average last spring frost is May 24 and first fall frost is September 20.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Park County gardeners in Zone 4b 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.