When to Plant Kai Lan in Union Parish, LA
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.
Union Parish, Louisiana is in USDA Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 22 and the first fall frost is November 5, giving you a growing season of approximately 228 days.
At an elevation of 426 feet, Union Parish receives approximately 57.4 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly loam soil. Summer highs average 96°F, so Kai Lan may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Kai Lan root diseases.
Union Parish Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
5.9-7
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.
Plant Water Budget
Kai Lan Planting Timeline — Union Parish, LA
Kai Lan Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | February 15 | Feb 15 – Mar 1 |
| Transplant Outdoors | March 22 | Mar 22 – Apr 5 |
| Direct Sow | March 8 | Mar 8 – Mar 29 |
| Fall Sowing | August 27 | Aug 27 – Sep 10 |
| Harvest | May 10 | May 10 – Jun 7 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 6" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | Start Indoors |
| March | Start Indoors Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| April | Transplant Outdoors |
| May | Harvest |
| June | Harvest |
| July | — |
| August | Fall Sowing |
| 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 8a
Growing Season
228 days
Growing Tips for Union Parish
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 Union Parish, LA?
Union Parish is in Zone 8a with an average last frost of March 22. Plan your Kai Lan planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Union Parish, LA?
Union Parish, Louisiana is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 22 and first fall frost is November 5.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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