When to plant Broccoli in Exeter, CA
Broccoli planted in Exeter between January 27 and February 17 matures in 60–90 days — well before the December 3 first frost. A second sowing from October 8 to October 22 extends the harvest into fall.
When to Plant Broccoli in Exeter, CA
Top priorities for Tulare County, California gardeners in August
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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.
Exeter, California is in USDA Zone 9b. The average last spring frost is February 17 and the first fall frost is December 3, giving you a growing season of approximately 289 days.
At an elevation of 5,836 feet, Tulare County receives approximately 18.4 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly loam soil. Summer highs average 95°F, so Broccoli may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. With low rainfall, drip irrigation is essential for growing Broccoli successfully. Mulch heavily to conserve soil moisture.
Exeter Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
5.9-7.2
Drainage
Well Drained
Broccoli 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.
Soil Compatibility in Exeter
How your county's soil matches Broccoli's growing requirements.
Soil pH
Your soil pH (5.9–7.2) overlaps with Broccoli's range (6.0–7.0), though not a perfect match.
Soil Texture
The loam soil in Tulare County is excellent for Broccoli — good drainage, moisture retention, and nutrient holding capacity.
Organic Matter
Organic matter is moderate (2.2%). Annual compost additions will help Broccoli.
How to Plant Broccoli
Fall planting: Sow 8 weeks before your first frost date for a fall harvest.
Succession Planting Broccoli
Sow every 6.9 weeks. Last sowing by Sep 04 to harvest before frost.
For a dedicated fall crop, sow by Oct 08.
Broccoli Water Budget
Water stress score is 8/10 — consider drought-tolerant varieties and mulching
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 | — | 3.6" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | 4.3" | 3.7" | 0.6" | 💧 Light watering |
| Mar | 4.3" | 3" | 1.3" | 💧 Light watering |
| Apr | 4.3" | 1.5" | 2.8" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| May | 4.3" | 0.5" | 3.8" | 🚿 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" | 1.7" | 2.6" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Dec | 4.3" | 3.4" | 0.9" | 💧 Light watering |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Feb–Dec in Tulare County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Broccoli Heat Requirements (GDD)
What are Growing Degree Days (GDD)?
Growing Degree Days measure the total warmth your plants receive during the growing season. Think of it as a "heat bank" — every day above 50°F deposits warmth that helps your plants grow.
Each plant needs a certain amount of accumulated heat to mature. If your county provides more GDD than the plant needs, it's a great fit. If it's close, you may want to choose faster-maturing varieties or start seeds indoors to get a head start.
Broccoli Planting Timeline — Exeter, CA
Broccoli Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | January 20 | Jan 20 – Feb 3 |
| Transplant Outdoors | February 17 | Feb 17 – Mar 3 |
| Direct Sow | January 27 | Jan 27 – Feb 17 |
| Harvest | April 21 | Apr 21 – Jun 2 |
| Fall Sowing | October 8 | Oct 8 – Oct 22 |
Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | Start Indoors Direct Sow |
| February | Start Indoors Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| March | Transplant Outdoors |
| April | Harvest |
| May | Harvest |
| June | Harvest |
| July | — |
| August | — |
| September | — |
| October | Fall Sowing |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
1"/week · 2-3 times/week
📅 Days to Maturity
60–90 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7 · Your soil: acceptable
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 9b
📆 Growing Season
289 days in Tulare County
Growing Tips for Broccoli in Exeter
Direct sow Broccoli outdoors after February 17 in Tulare County when soil has warmed and frost danger has passed.
Summer highs in Tulare County reach 95°F — grow Broccoli as a spring or fall crop. Use shade cloth if planting in summer.
Common pests for Broccoli in this region include cabbage worm and flea beetles. Use row covers early in the season and inspect plants weekly.
Tulare County receives only 18" of rain annually. Broccoli needs consistent moisture — install drip irrigation or water deeply 2-3 times per week.
General growing tips
Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost. Provide consistent moisture to prevent hollow stems. Harvest heads before yellow flowers appear.
Recommended Broccoli Varieties for Exeter
Heat-tolerant broccoli — plant as early spring or fall crop
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
When should I plant Broccoli in Exeter, CA?
In Exeter, CA, plant Broccoli after the last frost (around February 17) and before the first frost (around December 3). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Exeter, CA for Broccoli?
Exeter sits in USDA Zone 9b. Broccoli grows reliably in zones 2a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Broccoli grow in Exeter's climate?
Yes — Broccoli grows well in Exeter's temperate climate. Exeter averages a 290-day frost-free season, with last frost around February 17 and first frost around December 3.
Your Tulare County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Tulare County (Zone 9b). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.