When to Plant Broccoli in Caldwell County, TX
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.
Caldwell County, Texas is in USDA Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is February 27 and the first fall frost is December 1, giving you a growing season of approximately 277 days.
At an elevation of 3,482 feet, Caldwell County receives approximately 60.8 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay soil. Summer highs average 90°F, providing good warmth for Broccoli during the growing season. Clay soil retains moisture well for Broccoli, but amend with compost to improve drainage and prevent root rot. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Broccoli root diseases.
Caldwell County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay
Soil pH
6.8-8.1
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 Planting Timeline — Caldwell County, TX
Broccoli Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | January 23 | Jan 23 – Feb 6 |
| Transplant Outdoors | February 27 | Feb 27 – Mar 13 |
| Direct Sow | February 13 | Feb 13 – Mar 6 |
| Fall Sowing | September 22 | Sep 22 – Oct 6 |
| Harvest | May 1 | May 1 – Jun 12 |
Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | Start Indoors |
| February | Start Indoors Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| March | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| April | — |
| May | Harvest |
| June | Harvest |
| July | — |
| August | — |
| September | Fall Sowing |
| October | Fall Sowing |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
Water
Moderate — regular watering
Days to Maturity
60–90 days
Soil pH
6 – 7
USDA Zone
Zone 8b
Growing Season
277 days
Growing Tips for Caldwell County
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
Level Up Your Garden
Isolate 1/2 mile from other brassicas. Biennial — must overwinter roots.
Broccoli in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Broccoli in Caldwell County, TX?
Caldwell County is in Zone 8b with an average last frost of February 27. Plan your Broccoli planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Caldwell County, TX?
Caldwell County, Texas is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is February 27 and first fall frost is December 1.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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