When to Plant Broccoli in Lincoln County, MT
Broccoli is a nutrient-dense cool-season crop that produces large central heads followed by smaller side shoots. It is one of the most popular garden vegetables.
Lincoln County, Montana is in USDA Zone 5a. The average last spring frost is May 16 and the first fall frost is September 23, giving you a growing season of approximately 130 days.
At an elevation of 6,794 feet, Lincoln County receives approximately 18.1 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly loam soil. Summer highs average 86°F, providing good warmth for Broccoli during the growing season. With low rainfall, drip irrigation is essential for growing Broccoli successfully. Mulch heavily to conserve soil moisture.
Lincoln County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.8-7.7
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.
Soil Compatibility in Lincoln County
How your county's soil matches Broccoli's growing requirements.
Soil pH
Your soil pH (6.8–7.7) is more alkaline than Broccoli prefers (6.0–7.0). Add sulfur or peat moss to lower pH.
Soil Texture
The loam soil in Lincoln County is excellent for Broccoli — good drainage, moisture retention, and nutrient holding capacity.
Organic Matter
Organic matter is moderate (2.6%). Annual compost additions will help Broccoli.
How to Plant Broccoli
Fall planting: Sow 10 weeks before your first frost date for a fall harvest.
Succession Planting Broccoli
Sow every 6.9 weeks. Last sowing by Jun 25 to harvest before frost.
For a dedicated fall crop, sow by Jul 15.
Plant Water Budget
Water stress score is 6/10 — consider drought-tolerant varieties and mulching
Monthly Watering Guide for Broccoli
Broccoli needs approximately 1 inches of water per week (4.3" per month). Here's how your county's rainfall compares month by month.
| Month | Broccoli Needs | Rainfall | You Supplement | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | — | 1.4" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 1.1" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | — | 1.5" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Apr | — | 1.9" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| May | 4.3" | 2.1" | 2.2" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Jun | 4.3" | 1.2" | 3.1" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Jul | 4.3" | 1.8" | 2.5" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Aug | 4.3" | 1.6" | 2.7" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Sep | 4.3" | 1.5" | 2.8" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Oct | — | 1.6" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Nov | — | 1.4" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Dec | — | 0.9" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (May–Sep in Lincoln County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Broccoli Heat Requirements (GDD)
What are Growing Degree Days (GDD)?
Growing Degree Days measure the total warmth your plants receive during the growing season. Think of it as a "heat bank" — every day above 50°F deposits warmth that helps your plants grow.
Each plant needs a certain amount of accumulated heat to mature. If your county provides more GDD than the plant needs, it's a great fit. If it's close, you may want to choose faster-maturing varieties or start seeds indoors to get a head start.
Broccoli Planting Timeline — Lincoln County, MT
Broccoli Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | April 11 | Apr 11 – Apr 25 |
| Transplant Outdoors | May 16 | May 16 – May 30 |
| Direct Sow | May 2 | May 2 – May 23 |
| Harvest | July 18 | Jul 18 – Aug 29 |
| Fall Sowing | July 15 | Jul 15 – Jul 29 |
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 | — |
| July | Fall Sowing Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
1"/week · 1-2 times/week
📅 Days to Maturity
60–90 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7 · Your soil: too_alkaline
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 5a
📆 Growing Season
130 days in Lincoln County
Growing Tips for Broccoli in Lincoln County
Direct sow Broccoli outdoors after May 16 in Lincoln County when soil has warmed and frost danger has passed.
Common pests for Broccoli in this region include cabbage worm and flea beetles. Use row covers early in the season and inspect plants weekly.
Lincoln County receives only 18" of rain annually. Broccoli needs consistent moisture — install drip irrigation or water deeply 2-3 times per week.
General growing tips
Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost. Provide consistent moisture to prevent hollow stems. Harvest heads before yellow flowers appear.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Isolate 1/2 mile from other brassicas. Biennial — must overwinter roots.
Broccoli in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Broccoli in Lincoln County, MT?
Lincoln County is in Zone 5a with an average last frost of May 16. Plan your Broccoli planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Lincoln County, MT?
Lincoln County, Montana is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5a. The average last spring frost is May 16 and first fall frost is September 23.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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