When to Plant Broccoli Rabe in Smith 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.
Smith County, Kansas is in USDA Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is April 23 and the first fall frost is October 14, giving you a growing season of approximately 174 days.
At an elevation of 1,048 feet, Smith County receives approximately 26.2 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly loam soil. Summer highs average 84°F, so choose short-season varieties of Broccoli Rabe to ensure they mature before fall.
Smith County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.5-7.3
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 — Smith County, KS
Broccoli Rabe Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 19 | Mar 19 – Apr 2 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 23 | Apr 23 – May 7 |
| Direct Sow | April 9 | Apr 9 – Apr 30 |
| Fall Sowing | August 5 | Aug 5 – Aug 19 |
| Harvest | June 4 | Jun 4 – Jul 9 |
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
174 days
Growing Tips for Smith 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 Smith County, KS?
Smith County is in Zone 5b with an average last frost of April 23. Plan your Broccoli Rabe planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Smith County, KS?
Smith County, Kansas is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is April 23 and first fall frost is October 14.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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