When to plant Escarole in Bay County, MI
Escarole planted in Bay County between April 26 and May 17 matures in 50–70 days — well before the October 7 first frost. A second sowing from July 29 to August 12 extends the harvest into fall.
When to Plant Escarole in Bay 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.
Bay County, Michigan is in USDA Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is May 10 and the first fall frost is October 7, giving you a growing season of approximately 150 days.
At an elevation of 835 feet, Bay County receives approximately 33 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 87°F, providing good warmth for Escarole during the growing season.
Bay County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Escarole Planting Timeline — Bay 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 | July 29 | Jul 29 – Aug 12 |
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 | Fall Sowing 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 6a
📆 Growing Season
150 days in Bay County
Growing Tips for Bay 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 Bay County, MI?
Bay County is in Zone 6a 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 Bay County, MI?
Bay County, Michigan is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is May 10 and first fall frost is October 7.
When should I plant Escarole in Bay County, MI?
In Bay County, MI, plant Escarole after the last frost (around May 10) and before the first frost (around October 7). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Bay County, MI for Escarole?
Bay County sits in USDA Zone 6a. Escarole grows reliably in zones 3a through 10b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Escarole grow in Bay County's climate?
Yes — Escarole grows well in Bay County's temperate climate. Bay County averages a 150-day frost-free season, with last frost around May 10 and first frost around October 7.
Your Bay County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Bay County (Zone 6a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.