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When to Plant Broccoli Rabe in Delaware

Broccoli rabe (rapini) is a brassica grown for its slightly bitter, nutty-flavored florets, leaves, and stems. It is a staple in Italian cooking.

Delaware spans USDA hardiness zones 7b (with planting data available), so planting dates vary by your location within the state. Click your zone below for the most accurate dates.

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Click your county for exact Broccoli Rabe planting dates based on your local frost dates.

Hover over a county to see details. Click to view planting guide.

Broccoli Rabe Planting Calendar for Delaware

Zone 7b ~235 day growing season · Full guide →

Last frost: March 18 · First frost: November 8 · 235 day season

Activity When Date Range
Start Indoors February 11 Feb 11 – Feb 25
Transplant Outdoors March 18 Mar 18 – Apr 1
Direct Sow March 4 Mar 4 – Mar 25
Harvest April 29 Apr 29 – Jun 3
Fall Sowing August 30 Aug 30 – Sep 13

Growing Tips for Delaware

Direct sow in spring or fall. Harvest when small yellow flower buds first appear but before they open. Cut the main shoot first to encourage side shoots.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I plant Broccoli Rabe in Delaware?

Planting dates for Broccoli Rabe in Delaware depend on your USDA zone. Delaware spans zones 7b. Check the planting calendar above for your specific zone's frost dates and planting windows.

What zone is Delaware for planting?

Delaware contains USDA hardiness zones 7b. Your specific zone depends on your location within the state — northern and higher-elevation areas are in colder zones, while southern and coastal areas are warmer.

Data sources: USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map (2023), NOAA 30-Year Climate Normals, University Cooperative Extension planting guides. Last updated: May 2026.