When to plant Escarole in Lee County, KY
Escarole planted in Lee County between April 4 and April 25 matures in 50–70 days — well before the October 21 first frost. A second sowing from August 12 to August 26 extends the harvest into fall.
When to Plant Escarole in Lee County, KY
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.
Lee County, Kentucky is in USDA Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 18 and the first fall frost is October 21, giving you a growing season of approximately 186 days.
At an elevation of 3,433 feet, Lee County receives approximately 52.3 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 85°F, providing good warmth for Escarole during the growing season. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Escarole root diseases.
Lee County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Escarole Planting Timeline — Lee County, KY
Escarole Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 14 | Mar 14 – Mar 28 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 18 | Apr 18 – May 2 |
| Direct Sow | April 4 | Apr 4 – Apr 25 |
| Harvest | June 13 | Jun 13 – Jul 11 |
| Fall Sowing | August 12 | Aug 12 – Aug 26 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 6" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Start Indoors |
| April | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| May | Transplant Outdoors |
| June | Harvest |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Fall Sowing |
| September | — |
| 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 6b
📆 Growing Season
186 days in Lee County
Growing Tips for Lee 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
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Escarole in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Escarole in Lee County, KY?
Lee County is in Zone 6b with an average last frost of April 18. Plan your Escarole planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Lee County, KY?
Lee County, Kentucky is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 18 and first fall frost is October 21.
When should I plant Escarole in Lee County, KY?
In Lee County, KY, plant Escarole after the last frost (around April 18) and before the first frost (around October 21). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Lee County, KY for Escarole?
Lee County sits in USDA Zone 6b. Escarole grows reliably in zones 3a through 10b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Escarole grow in Lee County's climate?
Yes — Escarole grows well in Lee County's temperate climate. Lee County averages a 186-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 18 and first frost around October 21.
Your Lee County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Lee County (Zone 6b). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.