When to Plant Kai Lan in Franklin County, MA
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.
Franklin County, Massachusetts is in USDA Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is May 9 and the first fall frost is October 11, giving you a growing season of approximately 155 days.
At an elevation of 1,016 feet, Franklin County receives approximately 42.1 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 87°F, providing good warmth for Kai Lan during the growing season.
Franklin County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
4.8-6.7
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 — Franklin County, MA
Kai Lan Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | April 4 | Apr 4 – Apr 18 |
| Transplant Outdoors | May 9 | May 9 – May 23 |
| Direct Sow | April 25 | Apr 25 – May 16 |
| Fall Sowing | August 2 | Aug 2 – Aug 16 |
| Harvest | June 27 | Jun 27 – Jul 25 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 6" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | Start Indoors Direct Sow |
| May | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| June | Harvest |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Fall Sowing |
| September | — |
| 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 5b
Growing Season
155 days
Growing Tips for Franklin 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 Franklin County, MA?
Franklin County is in Zone 5b with an average last frost of May 9. Plan your Kai Lan planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Franklin County, MA?
Franklin County, Massachusetts is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is May 9 and first fall frost is October 11.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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