When to plant Endive in Lake County, CA
Plant Endive in Lake County from February 9 to March 2 in spring. Lake County sits in USDA Zone 9a, with last frost around March 2 and first frost on November 27. A second sowing from October 2 to October 16 extends the harvest into fall.
When to Plant Endive in Lake County, CA
Endive is a leafy green with a slightly bitter flavor, available in curly (frisee) and broad-leaved (escarole) types. It adds texture and complexity to salads.
Lake County, California is in USDA Zone 9a. The average last spring frost is March 2 and the first fall frost is November 27, giving you a growing season of approximately 270 days.
At an elevation of 154 feet, Lake County receives approximately 30.4 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly sandy loam soil. Summer highs average 83°F, so choose short-season varieties of Endive to ensure they mature before fall. Sandy soil warms quickly in spring — great for early planting — but Endive will need more frequent watering and organic matter to retain nutrients.
Lake County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sandy Loam
Soil pH
6.1-6.9
Drainage
Well Drained
Monthly Watering Guide for Endive
Endive needs approximately 1 inches of water per week (4.3" per month). Here's how your county's rainfall compares month by month.
| Month | Endive Needs | Rainfall | You Supplement | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | — | 6.2" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 6.5" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | 4.3" | 4.6" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Apr | 4.3" | 2.7" | 1.6" | 💧 Light watering |
| May | 4.3" | 0.8" | 3.5" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Jun | 4.3" | 0.2" | 4.1" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Jul | 4.3" | 0" | 4.3" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Aug | 4.3" | 0" | 4.3" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Sep | 4.3" | 0.3" | 4" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Oct | 4.3" | 1.1" | 3.2" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Nov | 4.3" | 3" | 1.3" | 💧 Light watering |
| Dec | — | 5.1" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Mar–Nov in Lake County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Endive Planting Timeline — Lake County, CA
Endive Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | February 2 | Feb 2 – Feb 16 |
| Transplant Outdoors | March 2 | Mar 2 – Mar 16 |
| Direct Sow | February 9 | Feb 9 – Mar 2 |
| Harvest | April 20 | Apr 20 – May 25 |
| Fall Sowing | October 2 | Oct 2 – Oct 16 |
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 | Harvest |
| May | Harvest |
| June | — |
| July | — |
| August | — |
| September | — |
| October | Fall Sowing |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Partial Shade (3-6 hours)
💧 Water
Moderate — regular watering
📅 Days to Maturity
45–65 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 5.5–7 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 9a
📆 Growing Season
270 days in Lake County
Growing Tips for Lake County
Sow seeds directly in spring or fall. Blanch heads by tying outer leaves together 2-3 weeks before harvest to reduce bitterness. Keep soil evenly moist.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Endive in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Endive in Lake County, CA?
Lake County is in Zone 9a with an average last frost of March 2. Plan your Endive planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Lake County, CA?
Lake County, California is in USDA Hardiness Zone 9a. The average last spring frost is March 2 and first fall frost is November 27.
When should I plant Endive in Lake County, CA?
In Lake County, CA, plant Endive after the last frost (around March 2) and before the first frost (around November 27). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Lake County, CA for Endive?
Lake County sits in USDA Zone 9a. Endive grows reliably in zones 3a through 10b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Endive grow in Lake County's climate?
Yes — Endive grows well in Lake County's temperate climate. Lake County averages a 270-day frost-free season, with last frost around March 2 and first frost around November 27.
Your Lake County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Lake County (Zone 9a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.