When to plant Broccoli in Sumter County, AL
Plant Broccoli in Sumter County from March 7 to March 28 in spring. Sumter County sits in USDA Zone 8b, with last frost around March 21 and first frost on November 8. A second sowing from August 30 to September 13 extends the harvest into fall.
When to Plant Broccoli in Sumter County, AL
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.
Sumter County, Alabama is in USDA Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 21 and the first fall frost is November 8, giving you a growing season of approximately 232 days.
At an elevation of 335 feet, Sumter County receives approximately 56.6 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay loam soil. Summer highs average 94°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.
Sumter County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
How Much Broccoli to Grow
For a family of 4, plant approximately 12 broccoli plants in about 24 sq ft. In Sumter County's 232-day season, you'll have plenty of time for a full harvest. Plan your garden layout →
Broccoli Planting Timeline — Sumter County, AL
Broccoli Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | February 14 | Feb 14 – Feb 28 |
| Transplant Outdoors | March 21 | Mar 21 – Apr 4 |
| Direct Sow | March 7 | Mar 7 – Mar 28 |
| Harvest | May 23 | May 23 – Jul 4 |
| Fall Sowing | August 30 | Aug 30 – Sep 13 |
Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | Start Indoors |
| March | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| April | Transplant Outdoors |
| May | Harvest |
| June | Harvest |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Fall Sowing |
| September | Fall Sowing |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
Moderate — regular watering
📅 Days to Maturity
60–90 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 8b
📆 Growing Season
232 days in Sumter County
Growing Tips for Sumter 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
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Isolate 1/2 mile from other brassicas. Biennial — must overwinter roots.
Broccoli in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Broccoli in Sumter County, AL?
Sumter County is in Zone 8b with an average last frost of March 21. Plan your Broccoli planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Sumter County, AL?
Sumter County, Alabama is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8b. The average last spring frost is March 21 and first fall frost is November 8.
When should I plant Broccoli in Sumter County, AL?
In Sumter County, AL, plant Broccoli after the last frost (around March 21) and before the first frost (around November 8). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Sumter County, AL for Broccoli?
Sumter County sits in USDA Zone 8b. Broccoli grows reliably in zones 2a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Broccoli grow in Sumter County's climate?
Yes — Broccoli grows well in Sumter County's temperate climate. Sumter County averages a 232-day frost-free season, with last frost around March 21 and first frost around November 8.
Your Sumter County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Sumter County (Zone 8b). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.