When to plant Escarole in Bibb County, AL
Bibb County gardeners should plant Escarole between February 28 and March 21 in spring. With Bibb County's Zone 8a climate (last frost March 14), Escarole needs 50–70 days to mature — plant by September 4 for a full harvest. A second sowing from September 4 to September 18 extends the harvest into fall.
When to Plant Escarole in Bibb County, AL
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.
Bibb County, Alabama is in USDA Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 14 and the first fall frost is November 13, giving you a growing season of approximately 244 days.
At an elevation of 66 feet, Bibb County receives approximately 59.2 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay loam soil. Summer highs average 92°F, providing good warmth for Escarole during the growing season. Clay soil retains moisture well for Escarole, but amend with compost to improve drainage and prevent root rot. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Escarole root diseases.
Bibb County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
5.3-6.6
Drainage
Well Drained
Monthly Watering Guide for Escarole
Escarole needs approximately 1 inches of water per week (4.3" per month). Here's how your county's rainfall compares month by month.
| Month | Escarole Needs | Rainfall | You Supplement | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | — | 4.6" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 4.2" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | 4.3" | 6.3" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Apr | 4.3" | 5.4" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| May | 4.3" | 4.3" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jun | 4.3" | 4.9" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jul | 4.3" | 6" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Aug | 4.3" | 6.5" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Sep | 4.3" | 4.3" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Oct | 4.3" | 3.4" | 0.9" | 💧 Light watering |
| Nov | 4.3" | 4.8" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Dec | — | 4.7" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Mar–Nov in Bibb County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Escarole Planting Timeline — Bibb County, AL
Escarole Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | February 7 | Feb 7 – Feb 21 |
| Transplant Outdoors | March 14 | Mar 14 – Mar 28 |
| Direct Sow | February 28 | Feb 28 – Mar 21 |
| Harvest | May 9 | May 9 – Jun 6 |
| Fall Sowing | September 4 | Sep 4 – Sep 18 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 6" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | Start Indoors Direct Sow |
| March | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| April | — |
| May | Harvest |
| June | Harvest |
| July | — |
| August | — |
| September | Fall Sowing |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Partial Shade (3-6 hours)
💧 Water
Moderate — regular watering
📅 Days to Maturity
50–70 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 5.5–7 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 8a
📆 Growing Season
244 days in Bibb County
Growing Tips for Bibb 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
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Escarole in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Escarole in Bibb County, AL?
Bibb County is in Zone 8a with an average last frost of March 14. Plan your Escarole planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Bibb County, AL?
Bibb County, Alabama is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 14 and first fall frost is November 13.
When should I plant Escarole in Bibb County, AL?
In Bibb County, AL, plant Escarole after the last frost (around March 14) and before the first frost (around November 13). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Bibb County, AL for Escarole?
Bibb County sits in USDA Zone 8a. Escarole grows reliably in zones 3a through 10b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Escarole grow in Bibb County's climate?
Yes — Escarole grows well in Bibb County's temperate climate. Bibb County averages a 244-day frost-free season, with last frost around March 14 and first frost around November 13.
Your Bibb County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Bibb County (Zone 8a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.