When to Plant Broccoli Rabe in Linn 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.
Linn County, Kansas is in USDA Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is April 9 and the first fall frost is October 25, giving you a growing season of approximately 199 days.
At an elevation of 434 feet, Linn County receives approximately 33 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly loam soil. Summer highs average 86°F, providing good warmth for Broccoli Rabe during the growing season.
Linn County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.6-7.2
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 — Linn County, KS
Broccoli Rabe Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 5 | Mar 5 – Mar 19 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 9 | Apr 9 – Apr 23 |
| Direct Sow | March 26 | Mar 26 – Apr 16 |
| Fall Sowing | August 16 | Aug 16 – Aug 30 |
| Harvest | May 21 | May 21 – Jun 25 |
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 6a
Growing Season
199 days
Growing Tips for Linn 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 Linn County, KS?
Linn County is in Zone 6a with an average last frost of April 9. Plan your Broccoli Rabe planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Linn County, KS?
Linn County, Kansas is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is April 9 and first fall frost is October 25.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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