When to plant Escarole in Orange County, FL
Orange County sits in USDA Zone 10a. Plant Escarole between January 13 (after last frost on February 3) and February 3. A second sowing from October 26 to November 9 extends the harvest into fall.
When to Plant Escarole in Orange 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.
Orange County, Florida is in USDA Zone 10a. The average last spring frost is February 3 and the first fall frost is December 21, giving you a growing season of approximately 321 days.
At an elevation of 494 feet, Orange County receives approximately 54.3 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly sand soil. Summer highs average 99°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.
Orange County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sand
Soil pH
5-5.8
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 | — | 2.5" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | 4.3" | 3" | 1.3" | 💧 Light watering |
| Mar | 4.3" | 2.9" | 1.4" | 💧 Light watering |
| Apr | 4.3" | 2.6" | 1.7" | 💧 Light watering |
| May | 4.3" | 4.1" | 0.2" | 💧 Light watering |
| Jun | 4.3" | 7.1" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Jul | 4.3" | 7.7" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Aug | 4.3" | 8.7" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Sep | 4.3" | 6.5" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Oct | 4.3" | 4.8" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Nov | 4.3" | 2" | 2.3" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Dec | 4.3" | 2.3" | 2" | 💧 Light watering |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Feb–Dec in Orange County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Escarole Planting Timeline — Orange County, FL
Escarole Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | January 6 | Jan 6 – Jan 20 |
| Transplant Outdoors | February 3 | Feb 3 – Feb 17 |
| Direct Sow | January 13 | Jan 13 – Feb 3 |
| Harvest | March 31 | Mar 31 – Apr 28 |
| Fall Sowing | October 26 | Oct 26 – Nov 9 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 6" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | Start Indoors Direct Sow |
| February | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| March | Harvest |
| April | Harvest |
| May | — |
| June | — |
| July | — |
| August | — |
| September | — |
| October | Fall Sowing |
| November | Fall Sowing |
| 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 10a
📆 Growing Season
321 days in Orange County
Growing Tips for Orange 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 Orange County, FL?
Orange County is in Zone 10a with an average last frost of February 3. Plan your Escarole planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Orange County, FL?
Orange County, Florida is in USDA Hardiness Zone 10a. The average last spring frost is February 3 and first fall frost is December 21.
When should I plant Escarole in Orange County, FL?
In Orange County, FL, plant Escarole after the last frost (around February 3) and before the first frost (around December 21). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Orange County, FL for Escarole?
Orange County sits in USDA Zone 10a. Escarole grows reliably in zones 3a through 10b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Escarole grow in Orange County's climate?
Yes — Escarole grows well in Orange County's temperate climate. Orange County averages a 322-day frost-free season, with last frost around February 3 and first frost around December 21.
Your Orange County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Orange County (Zone 10a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.