When to plant Escarole in Polk County, MN
Polk County sits in USDA Zone 4a. Plant Escarole between May 4 (after last frost on May 11) and May 25. A second sowing from July 9 to July 23 extends the harvest into fall.
When to Plant Escarole in Polk 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.
Polk County, Minnesota is in USDA Zone 4a. The average last spring frost is May 11 and the first fall frost is October 1, giving you a growing season of approximately 143 days.
At an elevation of 1,053 feet, Polk County receives approximately 35.9 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 78°F, so choose short-season varieties of Escarole to ensure they mature before fall.
Polk County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Escarole Planting Timeline — Polk County, MN
Escarole Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 30 | Mar 30 – Apr 13 |
| Transplant Outdoors | May 11 | May 11 – May 25 |
| Direct Sow | May 4 | May 4 – May 25 |
| Harvest | July 6 | Jul 6 – Aug 3 |
| Fall Sowing | July 9 | Jul 9 – Jul 23 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 6" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Start Indoors |
| April | Start Indoors |
| May | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| June | — |
| 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 4a
📆 Growing Season
143 days in Polk County
Growing Tips for Polk 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 Polk County, MN?
Polk County is in Zone 4a with an average last frost of May 11. Plan your Escarole planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Polk County, MN?
Polk County, Minnesota is in USDA Hardiness Zone 4a. The average last spring frost is May 11 and first fall frost is October 1.
When should I plant Escarole in Polk County, MN?
In Polk County, MN, plant Escarole after the last frost (around May 11) and before the first frost (around October 1). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Polk County, MN for Escarole?
Polk County sits in USDA Zone 4a. Escarole grows reliably in zones 3a through 10b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Escarole grow in Polk County's climate?
Yes — Escarole grows well in Polk County's temperate climate. Polk County averages a 143-day frost-free season, with last frost around May 11 and first frost around October 1.
Your Polk County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Polk County (Zone 4a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.