When to Plant Kai Lan in Mobile County, AL
Kai lan (Chinese broccoli) is a brassica grown for its thick, glossy stems and small flower buds. It has a slightly bitter, broccoli-like flavor essential in Cantonese cooking.
Mobile County, Alabama is in USDA Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 3 and the first fall frost is November 24, giving you a growing season of approximately 266 days.
At an elevation of 101 feet, Mobile County receives approximately 48.3 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly sandy loam soil. Summer highs average 97°F, so Kai Lan may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. Sandy soil warms quickly in spring — great for early planting — but Kai Lan will need more frequent watering and organic matter to retain nutrients.
Mobile County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sandy Loam
Soil pH
4.8-6.1
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
Kai Lan Planting Timeline — Mobile County, AL
Kai Lan Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | January 27 | Jan 27 – Feb 10 |
| Transplant Outdoors | March 3 | Mar 3 – Mar 17 |
| Direct Sow | February 17 | Feb 17 – Mar 10 |
| Fall Sowing | September 15 | Sep 15 – Sep 29 |
| Harvest | April 21 | Apr 21 – May 19 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 6" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | Start Indoors |
| February | Start Indoors Direct Sow |
| March | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| April | Harvest |
| May | Harvest |
| June | — |
| July | — |
| August | — |
| September | Fall Sowing |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
Water
Moderate — regular watering
Days to Maturity
45–60 days
Soil pH
6 – 7.5
USDA Zone
Zone 8b
Growing Season
266 days
Growing Tips for Mobile County
Direct sow in spring or fall. Harvest when flower buds first appear but before they open. Cut stems at the base to encourage side shoots. Prefers cool weather.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Level Up Your Garden
Kai Lan in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Kai Lan in Mobile County, AL?
Mobile County is in Zone 8b with an average last frost of March 3. Plan your Kai Lan planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Mobile County, AL?
Mobile County, Alabama is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 3 and first fall frost is November 24.
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