When to plant Escarole in Alger County, MI
The best window to plant Escarole in Alger County, is April 26–May 17, when soil warms to 50°F. Last frost typically hits May 10; first frost October 16. A second sowing from August 7 to August 21 extends the harvest into fall.
When to Plant Escarole in Alger County, MI
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.
Alger County, Michigan is in USDA Zone 5a. The average last spring frost is May 10 and the first fall frost is October 16, giving you a growing season of approximately 159 days.
At an elevation of 1,014 feet, Alger County receives approximately 40.9 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 80°F, so choose short-season varieties of Escarole to ensure they mature before fall.
Alger County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Escarole Planting Timeline — Alger County, MI
Escarole Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | April 5 | Apr 5 – Apr 19 |
| Transplant Outdoors | May 10 | May 10 – May 24 |
| Direct Sow | April 26 | Apr 26 – May 17 |
| Harvest | July 5 | Jul 5 – Aug 2 |
| Fall Sowing | August 7 | Aug 7 – Aug 21 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 6" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | Start Indoors Direct Sow |
| May | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| June | — |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Fall Sowing Harvest |
| 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 5a
📆 Growing Season
159 days in Alger County
Growing Tips for Alger 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 Alger County, MI?
Alger County is in Zone 5a with an average last frost of May 10. Plan your Escarole planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Alger County, MI?
Alger County, Michigan is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5a. The average last spring frost is May 10 and first fall frost is October 16.
When should I plant Escarole in Alger County, MI?
In Alger County, MI, plant Escarole after the last frost (around May 10) and before the first frost (around October 16). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Alger County, MI for Escarole?
Alger County sits in USDA Zone 5a. Escarole grows reliably in zones 3a through 10b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Escarole grow in Alger County's climate?
Yes — Escarole grows well in Alger County's temperate climate. Alger County averages a 159-day frost-free season, with last frost around May 10 and first frost around October 16.
Your Alger County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Alger County (Zone 5a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.