When to plant Escarole in Bradford County, FL
Bradford County sits in USDA Zone 9a. Plant Escarole between February 8 (after last frost on March 1) and March 1. A second sowing from October 3 to October 17 extends the harvest into fall.
When to Plant Escarole in Bradford County, FL
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.
Bradford County, Florida is in USDA Zone 9a. The average last spring frost is March 1 and the first fall frost is November 28, giving you a growing season of approximately 272 days.
At an elevation of 297 feet, Bradford County receives approximately 51.9 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly sand soil. Summer highs average 98°F, so Escarole may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. Sandy soil warms quickly in spring — great for early planting — but Escarole will need more frequent watering and organic matter to retain nutrients. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Escarole root diseases.
Bradford County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sand
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Escarole Planting Timeline — Bradford County, FL
Escarole Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | February 1 | Feb 1 – Feb 15 |
| Transplant Outdoors | March 1 | Mar 1 – Mar 15 |
| Direct Sow | February 8 | Feb 8 – Mar 1 |
| Harvest | April 26 | Apr 26 – May 24 |
| Fall Sowing | October 3 | Oct 3 – Oct 17 |
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
50–70 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 5.5–7 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 9a
📆 Growing Season
272 days in Bradford County
Growing Tips for Bradford 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 Bradford County, FL?
Bradford County is in Zone 9a with an average last frost of March 1. Plan your Escarole planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Bradford County, FL?
Bradford County, Florida is in USDA Hardiness Zone 9a. The average last spring frost is March 1 and first fall frost is November 28.
When should I plant Escarole in Bradford County, FL?
In Bradford County, FL, plant Escarole after the last frost (around March 1) and before the first frost (around November 28). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Bradford County, FL for Escarole?
Bradford County sits in USDA Zone 9a. Escarole grows reliably in zones 3a through 10b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Escarole grow in Bradford County's climate?
Yes — Escarole grows well in Bradford County's temperate climate. Bradford County averages a 272-day frost-free season, with last frost around March 1 and first frost around November 28.
Your Bradford County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Bradford 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.