When to Plant Broccoli Rabe in Taos County, NM
Broccoli rabe (rapini) is a brassica grown for its slightly bitter, nutty-flavored florets, leaves, and stems. It is a staple in Italian cooking.
Taos County, New Mexico is in USDA Zone 5a. The average last spring frost is May 26 and the first fall frost is September 21, giving you a growing season of approximately 118 days.
At an elevation of 7,833 feet, Taos County receives approximately 17.8 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly sandy loam soil. Summer highs average 85°F, providing good warmth for Broccoli Rabe during the growing season. Sandy soil warms quickly in spring — great for early planting — but Broccoli Rabe will need more frequent watering and organic matter to retain nutrients. With low rainfall, drip irrigation is essential for growing Broccoli Rabe successfully. Mulch heavily to conserve soil moisture.
Taos County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sandy Loam
Soil pH
7-8.5
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 10/10 — consider drought-tolerant varieties and mulching
Broccoli Rabe Planting Timeline — Taos County, NM
Broccoli Rabe Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | April 21 | Apr 21 – May 5 |
| Transplant Outdoors | May 26 | May 26 – Jun 9 |
| Direct Sow | May 12 | May 12 – Jun 2 |
| Fall Sowing | July 13 | Jul 13 – Jul 27 |
| Harvest | July 7 | Jul 7 – Aug 11 |
Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | Start Indoors |
| May | Start Indoors Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| June | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| July | Fall Sowing Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| 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 5a
Growing Season
118 days
Growing Tips for Taos 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 Taos County, NM?
Taos County is in Zone 5a with an average last frost of May 26. Plan your Broccoli Rabe planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Taos County, NM?
Taos County, New Mexico is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5a. The average last spring frost is May 26 and first fall frost is September 21.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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