When to Plant Broccoli Rabe in Dickinson County, KS
Broccoli rabe (rapini) is a brassica grown for its slightly bitter, nutty-flavored florets, leaves, and stems. It is a staple in Italian cooking.
Dickinson County, Kansas is in USDA Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is April 15 and the first fall frost is October 22, giving you a growing season of approximately 190 days.
At an elevation of 754 feet, Dickinson County receives approximately 21.2 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly loam soil. Summer highs average 86°F, providing good warmth for Broccoli Rabe during the growing season.
Dickinson County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.5-7.6
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 — Dickinson County, KS
Broccoli Rabe Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 11 | Mar 11 – Mar 25 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 15 | Apr 15 – Apr 29 |
| Direct Sow | April 1 | Apr 1 – Apr 22 |
| Fall Sowing | August 13 | Aug 13 – Aug 27 |
| Harvest | May 27 | May 27 – Jul 1 |
Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Start Indoors |
| April | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| May | Harvest |
| 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
190 days
Growing Tips for Dickinson 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 Dickinson County, KS?
Dickinson County is in Zone 5b with an average last frost of April 15. Plan your Broccoli Rabe planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Dickinson County, KS?
Dickinson County, Kansas is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is April 15 and first fall frost is October 22.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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