When to Plant Mustard Greens in Los Angeles County, CA
Mustard greens are fast-growing brassicas with a spicy, peppery kick. They come in green, red, and purple varieties and are excellent cooked or in salads.
Los Angeles County, California is in USDA Zone 10a. The average last spring frost is April 3 and the first fall frost is November 21, giving you a growing season of approximately 232 days.
At an elevation of 1,315 feet, Los Angeles County receives approximately 12.9 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly loam soil. Summer highs average 87°F, providing good warmth for Mustard Greens during the growing season. With low rainfall, drip irrigation is essential for growing Mustard Greens successfully. Mulch heavily to conserve soil moisture.
Los Angeles County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
5.8-7.5
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 10/10 — consider drought-tolerant varieties and mulching
Mustard Greens Planting Timeline — Los Angeles County, CA
Mustard Greens Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 6 | Mar 6 – Mar 20 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 3 | Apr 3 – Apr 17 |
| Direct Sow | March 13 | Mar 13 – Apr 3 |
| Fall Sowing | September 26 | Sep 26 – Oct 10 |
| Harvest | May 8 | May 8 – Jul 10 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 6" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Start Indoors Direct Sow |
| April | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| May | Harvest |
| June | Harvest |
| July | Harvest |
| August | — |
| September | Fall Sowing |
| October | Fall Sowing |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Partial Shade (3-6 hours)
Water
Moderate — regular watering
Days to Maturity
30–50 days
Soil pH
6 – 7
USDA Zone
Zone 10a
Growing Season
232 days
Growing Tips for Los Angeles County
Direct sow in early spring or fall. Harvest young leaves for milder flavor. Plants bolt quickly in heat so grow as a cool-season crop or provide shade.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Level Up Your Garden
Mustard Greens in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Mustard Greens in Los Angeles County, CA?
Los Angeles County is in Zone 10a with an average last frost of April 3. Plan your Mustard Greens planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Los Angeles County, CA?
Los Angeles County, California is in USDA Hardiness Zone 10a. The average last spring frost is April 3 and first fall frost is November 21.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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