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When to plant Endive in Clay County, MS

In Clay County, plant Endive in spring between March 9 and March 30, once soil temps hold above 50°F. Clay County's last frost averages March 23, so most warm-season crops establish quickly once soil holds above 60°F. For a fall crop, sow between August 29 and September 12 — roughly 45–65 days before the first frost on November 7.

When to Plant Endive in Clay County, MS

Endive is a leafy green with a slightly bitter flavor, available in curly (frisee) and broad-leaved (escarole) types. It adds texture and complexity to salads.

Clay County, Mississippi is in USDA Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 23 and the first fall frost is November 7, giving you a growing season of approximately 229 days.

At an elevation of 456 feet, Clay County receives approximately 61.8 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay loam soil. Summer highs average 88°F, providing good warmth for Endive during the growing season. Clay soil retains moisture well for Endive, but amend with compost to improve drainage and prevent root rot. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Endive root diseases.

Clay County, MS (Zone 8a) Long season
229 days
Last Spring Frost March 23
229 growing days
First Fall Frost November 7

Clay County Soil Profile

Soil Type

Clay Loam

Soil pH

6.0-7.0

Drainage

Well Drained

Endive Planting Timeline — Clay County, MS

Endive Planting Calendar

Activity When Date Range
Start Indoors February 16 Feb 16 – Mar 2
Transplant Outdoors March 23 Mar 23 – Apr 6
Direct Sow March 9 Mar 9 – Mar 30
Harvest May 11 May 11 – Jun 15
Fall Sowing August 29 Aug 29 – Sep 12

Plant 0.5" deep · 6" apart · Rows 12" apart

Month-by-Month Timeline

MonthActivities
January
February Start Indoors
March Start Indoors Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow
April Transplant Outdoors
May Harvest
June Harvest
July
August Fall Sowing
September Fall Sowing
October
November
December

Growing Conditions

☀️ Sun

Partial Shade (3-6 hours)

💧 Water

Moderate — regular watering

📅 Days to Maturity

45–65 days

🧪 Soil pH

Needs 5.5–7 · Your soil: N/A

🗺️ USDA Zone

Zone 8a

📆 Growing Season

229 days in Clay County

Growing Tips for Clay County

Sow seeds directly in spring or fall. Blanch heads by tying outer leaves together 2-3 weeks before harvest to reduce bitterness. Keep soil evenly moist.

Companion Planting

Good Companions

Avoid Planting Near

  • Fennel

Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I plant Endive in Clay County, MS?

Clay County is in Zone 8a with an average last frost of March 23. Plan your Endive planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.

What planting zone is Clay County, MS?

Clay County, Mississippi is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 23 and first fall frost is November 7.

When should I plant Endive in Clay County, MS?

In Clay County, MS, plant Endive after the last frost (around March 23) and before the first frost (around November 7). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.

What growing zone is Clay County, MS for Endive?

Clay County sits in USDA Zone 8a. Endive grows reliably in zones 3a through 10b, so it's a good fit here.

Can Endive grow in Clay County's climate?

Yes — Endive grows well in Clay County's temperate climate. Clay County averages a 229-day frost-free season, with last frost around March 23 and first frost around November 7.

🌱

Your Clay County Garden Planner — Free

A 22-page printable planner built for Clay County (Zone 8a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.

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Data sources: USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map (2023), NOAA 30-Year Climate Normals. Frost dates are based on 50% probability averages for Clay County, MS. Local conditions may vary. Last updated: June 2026.

Sources & credits

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