When to plant Escarole in Cook County, MN
Spring Escarole in Cook County goes in May 13–June 3, once nighttime temps stop dipping near freezing. A second sowing from July 7 to July 21 extends the harvest into fall.
When to Plant Escarole in Cook County, MN
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.
Cook County, Minnesota is in USDA Zone 3b. The average last spring frost is May 20 and the first fall frost is September 29, giving you a growing season of approximately 132 days.
At an elevation of 1,068 feet, Cook County receives approximately 34.4 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.
Cook County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Escarole Planting Timeline — Cook County, MN
Escarole Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | April 8 | Apr 8 – Apr 22 |
| Transplant Outdoors | May 20 | May 20 – Jun 3 |
| Direct Sow | May 13 | May 13 – Jun 3 |
| Harvest | July 15 | Jul 15 – Aug 12 |
| Fall Sowing | July 7 | Jul 7 – Jul 21 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 6" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | Start Indoors |
| May | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| June | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| July | Fall Sowing Harvest |
| August | 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 3b
📆 Growing Season
132 days in Cook County
Growing Tips for Cook 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 Cook County, MN?
Cook County is in Zone 3b with an average last frost of May 20. Plan your Escarole planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Cook County, MN?
Cook County, Minnesota is in USDA Hardiness Zone 3b. The average last spring frost is May 20 and first fall frost is September 29.
When should I plant Escarole in Cook County, MN?
In Cook County, MN, plant Escarole after the last frost (around May 20) and before the first frost (around September 29). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Cook County, MN for Escarole?
Cook County sits in USDA Zone 3b. Escarole grows reliably in zones 3a through 10b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Escarole grow in Cook County's climate?
Yes — Escarole grows well in Cook County's temperate climate. Cook County averages a 132-day frost-free season, with last frost around May 20 and first frost around September 29.
Your Cook County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Cook County (Zone 3b). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.