When to plant Escarole in Mower County, MN
In Mower County, plant Escarole in spring between April 21 and May 12, once soil temps hold above 50°F. Mower County's last frost averages April 28, so be cautious and check the 10-day forecast before planting tender crops. For a fall crop, sow between July 15 and July 29 — roughly 50–70 days before the first frost on October 7.
When to Plant Escarole in Mower 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.
Mower County, Minnesota is in USDA Zone 4b. The average last spring frost is April 28 and the first fall frost is October 7, giving you a growing season of approximately 162 days.
At an elevation of 577 feet, Mower County receives approximately 33 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 82°F, so choose short-season varieties of Escarole to ensure they mature before fall.
Mower County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.3-6.7
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 | — | 1.6" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 1.5" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | — | 2.2" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Apr | 4.3" | 3.7" | 0.6" | 💧 Light watering |
| May | 4.3" | 3.4" | 0.9" | 💧 Light watering |
| Jun | 4.3" | 3.9" | 0.4" | 💧 Light watering |
| Jul | 4.3" | 3.3" | 1" | 💧 Light watering |
| Aug | 4.3" | 3.6" | 0.7" | 💧 Light watering |
| Sep | 4.3" | 2.8" | 1.5" | 💧 Light watering |
| Oct | 4.3" | 2.4" | 1.9" | 💧 Light watering |
| Nov | — | 2.5" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Dec | — | 2.2" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Apr–Oct in Mower County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Escarole Planting Timeline — Mower County, MN
Escarole Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 17 | Mar 17 – Mar 31 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 28 | Apr 28 – May 12 |
| Direct Sow | April 21 | Apr 21 – May 12 |
| Harvest | June 23 | Jun 23 – Jul 21 |
| Fall Sowing | July 15 | Jul 15 – Jul 29 |
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 Direct Sow |
| June | Harvest |
| July | Fall Sowing Harvest |
| August | — |
| 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 4b
📆 Growing Season
162 days in Mower County
Growing Tips for Mower 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 Mower County, MN?
Mower County is in Zone 4b with an average last frost of April 28. Plan your Escarole planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Mower County, MN?
Mower County, Minnesota is in USDA Hardiness Zone 4b. The average last spring frost is April 28 and first fall frost is October 7.
When should I plant Escarole in Mower County, MN?
In Mower County, MN, plant Escarole after the last frost (around April 28) and before the first frost (around October 7). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Mower County, MN for Escarole?
Mower County sits in USDA Zone 4b. Escarole grows reliably in zones 3a through 10b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Escarole grow in Mower County's climate?
Yes — Escarole grows well in Mower County's temperate climate. Mower County averages a 162-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 28 and first frost around October 7.
Your Mower County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Mower County (Zone 4b). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.