When to Plant Broccoli Rabe in Jackson 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.
Jackson County, Kansas is in USDA Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is April 14 and the first fall frost is October 22, giving you a growing season of approximately 191 days.
At an elevation of 909 feet, Jackson County receives approximately 25.8 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly loam soil. Summer highs average 85°F, providing good warmth for Broccoli Rabe during the growing season.
Jackson County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.8-7.8
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 — Jackson County, KS
Broccoli Rabe Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 10 | Mar 10 – Mar 24 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 14 | Apr 14 – Apr 28 |
| Direct Sow | March 31 | Mar 31 – Apr 21 |
| Fall Sowing | August 13 | Aug 13 – Aug 27 |
| Harvest | May 26 | May 26 – Jun 30 |
Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Start Indoors Direct Sow |
| April | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| May | Harvest |
| June | Harvest |
| July | — |
| 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
191 days
Growing Tips for Jackson 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 Jackson County, KS?
Jackson County is in Zone 5b with an average last frost of April 14. Plan your Broccoli Rabe planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Jackson County, KS?
Jackson County, Kansas is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is April 14 and first fall frost is October 22.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Jackson County gardeners in Zone 5b organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
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