When to Plant Broccoli Rabe in Boone County, IN
Broccoli rabe (rapini) is a brassica grown for its slightly bitter, nutty-flavored florets, leaves, and stems. It is a staple in Italian cooking.
Boone County, Indiana is in USDA Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is April 22 and the first fall frost is October 15, giving you a growing season of approximately 176 days.
At an elevation of 850 feet, Boone County receives approximately 35.3 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 83°F, so choose short-season varieties of Broccoli Rabe to ensure they mature before fall.
Boone County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.2-6.8
Drainage
Well Drained
Plant Planting Risk Windows
Percentages indicate frost risk at transplant. The 70% safe window means there is a 30% chance of frost after transplant — suitable for cold-hardy crops or gardeners with frost protection. The 90% safe window is best for tender plants.
Plant Water Budget
Water stress score is 6/10 — consider drought-tolerant varieties and mulching
Broccoli Rabe Planting Timeline — Boone County, IN
Broccoli Rabe Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 18 | Mar 18 – Apr 1 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 22 | Apr 22 – May 6 |
| Direct Sow | April 8 | Apr 8 – Apr 29 |
| Fall Sowing | August 6 | Aug 6 – Aug 20 |
| Harvest | June 3 | Jun 3 – Jul 8 |
Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Start Indoors |
| April | Start Indoors Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| May | Transplant Outdoors |
| June | Harvest |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Fall Sowing |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
Water
Moderate — regular watering
Days to Maturity
40–60 days
Soil pH
6 – 7.5
USDA Zone
Zone 5b
Growing Season
176 days
Growing Tips for Boone County
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.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Level Up Your Garden
Broccoli Rabe in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Broccoli Rabe in Boone County, IN?
Boone County is in Zone 5b with an average last frost of April 22. Plan your Broccoli Rabe planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Boone County, IN?
Boone County, Indiana is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is April 22 and first fall frost is October 15.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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