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When to plant Escarole in Isleton, CA

Isleton gardeners should plant Escarole between January 22 and February 12 in spring. With Isleton's Zone 9b climate (last frost February 12), Escarole needs 50–70 days to mature — plant by September 22 for a full harvest. A second sowing from October 6 to October 20 extends the harvest into fall.

When to Plant Escarole in Isleton, CA

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.

Isleton, California is in USDA Zone 9b. The average last spring frost is February 12 and the first fall frost is December 1, giving you a growing season of approximately 292 days.

At an elevation of 263 feet, Sacramento County receives approximately 33.2 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly loam soil. Summer highs average 90°F, providing good warmth for Escarole during the growing season.

Isleton, CA (Zone 9b) Year-round
292 days
Last Spring Frost February 12
292 growing days
First Fall Frost December 1

Isleton Soil Profile

Soil Type

Loam

Soil pH

6.4-7.1

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 6.1" 0" ❄️ Dormant
Feb 4.3" 7.5" 0" ✅ Rainfall sufficient
Mar 4.3" 5.7" 0" ✅ Rainfall sufficient
Apr 4.3" 2.5" 1.8" 💧 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" 1.4" 2.9" 🚿 Regular watering
Nov 4.3" 2.7" 1.6" 💧 Light watering
Dec 4.3" 5.9" 0" ✅ Rainfall sufficient

Water needs are for active growing months only (Feb–Dec in Sacramento County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.

Escarole Planting Timeline — Isleton, CA

Escarole Planting Calendar

Activity When Date Range
Start Indoors January 15 Jan 15 – Jan 29
Transplant Outdoors February 12 Feb 12 – Feb 26
Direct Sow January 22 Jan 22 – Feb 12
Harvest April 9 Apr 9 – May 7
Fall Sowing October 6 Oct 6 – Oct 20

Plant 0.5" deep · 6" apart · Rows 12" apart

Month-by-Month Timeline

MonthActivities
January Start Indoors Direct Sow
February Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow
March
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

50–70 days

🧪 Soil pH

Needs 5.5–7 · Your soil: N/A

🗺️ USDA Zone

Zone 9b

📆 Growing Season

292 days in Sacramento County

Growing Tips for Isleton

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

  • Fennel

Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →

When should I plant Escarole in Isleton, CA?

In Isleton, CA, plant Escarole after the last frost (around February 12) and before the first frost (around December 1). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.

What growing zone is Isleton, CA for Escarole?

Isleton sits in USDA Zone 9b. Escarole grows reliably in zones 3a through 10b, so it's a good fit here.

Can Escarole grow in Isleton's climate?

Yes — Escarole grows well in Isleton's temperate climate. Isleton averages a 293-day frost-free season, with last frost around February 12 and first frost around December 1.

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Data sources: USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map (2023), NOAA 30-Year Climate Normals. Frost dates are based on 50% probability averages for Sacramento County, CA. Local conditions may vary. Last updated: June 2026.