When to plant Broccoli in Orange County, CA
For Broccoli in Orange County, the safe spring window opens around January 23 and closes around February 13. Last expected frost is February 13, first fall frost December 11, giving a 302-day growing season. A second sowing from October 16 to October 30 extends the harvest into fall.
When to Plant Broccoli in Orange County, CA
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.
Orange County, California is in USDA Zone 10b. The average last spring frost is February 13 and the first fall frost is December 11, giving you a growing season of approximately 301 days.
At an elevation of 405 feet, Orange County receives approximately 13.8 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly loam soil. Summer highs average 88°F, providing good warmth for Broccoli during the growing season. With low rainfall, drip irrigation is essential for growing Broccoli successfully. Mulch heavily to conserve soil moisture.
Orange County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
5.7-7.6
Drainage
Well Drained
How Much Broccoli to Grow
For a family of 4, plant approximately 12 broccoli plants in about 24 sq ft. In Orange County's 301-day season, you'll have plenty of time for a full harvest. Plan your garden layout →
Monthly Watering Guide for Broccoli
Broccoli needs approximately 1 inches of water per week (4.3" per month). Here's how your county's rainfall compares month by month.
| Month | Broccoli Needs | Rainfall | You Supplement | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | — | 2.4" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | 4.3" | 2.6" | 1.7" | 💧 Light watering |
| Mar | 4.3" | 2.2" | 2.1" | 💧 Light watering |
| Apr | 4.3" | 1.1" | 3.2" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| May | 4.3" | 0.4" | 3.9" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Jun | 4.3" | 0.1" | 4.2" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Jul | 4.3" | 0" | 4.3" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Aug | 4.3" | 0" | 4.3" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Sep | 4.3" | 0.2" | 4.1" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Oct | 4.3" | 0.7" | 3.6" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Nov | 4.3" | 1.5" | 2.8" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Dec | 4.3" | 2.7" | 1.6" | 💧 Light watering |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Feb–Dec in Orange County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Broccoli Planting Timeline — Orange County, CA
Broccoli Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | January 16 | Jan 16 – Jan 30 |
| Transplant Outdoors | February 13 | Feb 13 – Feb 27 |
| Direct Sow | January 23 | Jan 23 – Feb 13 |
| Harvest | April 17 | Apr 17 – May 29 |
| Fall Sowing | October 16 | Oct 16 – Oct 30 |
Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | Start Indoors Direct Sow |
| February | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| March | — |
| April | Harvest |
| May | Harvest |
| June | — |
| July | — |
| August | — |
| September | — |
| October | Fall Sowing |
| 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 10b
📆 Growing Season
301 days in Orange County
Growing Tips for Orange 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 Orange County, CA?
Orange County is in Zone 10b with an average last frost of February 13. Plan your Broccoli planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Orange County, CA?
Orange County, California is in USDA Hardiness Zone 10b. The average last spring frost is February 13 and first fall frost is December 11.
When should I plant Broccoli in Orange County, CA?
In Orange County, CA, plant Broccoli after the last frost (around February 13) and before the first frost (around December 11). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Orange County, CA for Broccoli?
Orange County sits in USDA Zone 10b. Broccoli grows reliably in zones 2a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Broccoli grow in Orange County's climate?
Yes — Broccoli grows well in Orange County's temperate climate. Orange County averages a 302-day frost-free season, with last frost around February 13 and first frost around December 11.
Your Orange County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Orange County (Zone 10b). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.