When to Plant Broccoli Rabe in Iron County, UT
Broccoli rabe (rapini) is a brassica grown for its slightly bitter, nutty-flavored florets, leaves, and stems. It is a staple in Italian cooking.
Iron County, Utah is in USDA Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is May 21 and the first fall frost is October 1, giving you a growing season of approximately 133 days.
At an elevation of 6,296 feet, Iron County receives approximately 20 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly loam soil. Summer highs average 86°F, providing good warmth for Broccoli Rabe during the growing season.
Iron County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.4-7.8
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 8/10 — consider drought-tolerant varieties and mulching
Broccoli Rabe Planting Timeline — Iron County, UT
Broccoli Rabe Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | April 16 | Apr 16 – Apr 30 |
| Transplant Outdoors | May 21 | May 21 – Jun 4 |
| Direct Sow | May 7 | May 7 – May 28 |
| Fall Sowing | July 23 | Jul 23 – Aug 6 |
| Harvest | July 2 | Jul 2 – Aug 6 |
Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | Start Indoors |
| May | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| June | Transplant Outdoors |
| July | Fall Sowing Harvest |
| August | Fall Sowing 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 6b
Growing Season
133 days
Growing Tips for Iron 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 Iron County, UT?
Iron County is in Zone 6b with an average last frost of May 21. Plan your Broccoli Rabe planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Iron County, UT?
Iron County, Utah is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is May 21 and first fall frost is October 1.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Iron County gardeners in Zone 6b organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
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