When to plant Broccoli in Brown County, IL
Brown County gardeners should plant Broccoli between April 3 and April 24 in spring. With Brown County's Zone 6a climate (last frost April 17), Broccoli needs 60–90 days to mature — plant by July 18 for a full harvest. A second sowing from August 7 to August 21 extends the harvest into fall.
When to Plant Broccoli in Brown County, IL
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.
Brown County, Illinois is in USDA Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is April 17 and the first fall frost is October 16, giving you a growing season of approximately 182 days.
At an elevation of 868 feet, Brown County receives approximately 36.2 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 86°F, providing good warmth for Broccoli during the growing season.
Brown County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt 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 Brown County's 182-day season, you'll have plenty of time for a full harvest. Plan your garden layout →
Broccoli Planting Timeline — Brown County, IL
Broccoli Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 13 | Mar 13 – Mar 27 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 17 | Apr 17 – May 1 |
| Direct Sow | April 3 | Apr 3 – Apr 24 |
| Harvest | June 19 | Jun 19 – Jul 31 |
| Fall Sowing | August 7 | Aug 7 – Aug 21 |
Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Start Indoors |
| April | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| May | Transplant Outdoors |
| 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
60–90 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 6a
📆 Growing Season
182 days in Brown County
Growing Tips for Brown 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 Brown County, IL?
Brown County is in Zone 6a with an average last frost of April 17. Plan your Broccoli planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Brown County, IL?
Brown County, Illinois is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is April 17 and first fall frost is October 16.
When should I plant Broccoli in Brown County, IL?
In Brown County, IL, plant Broccoli after the last frost (around April 17) and before the first frost (around October 16). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Brown County, IL for Broccoli?
Brown County sits in USDA Zone 6a. Broccoli grows reliably in zones 2a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Broccoli grow in Brown County's climate?
Yes — Broccoli grows well in Brown County's temperate climate. Brown County averages a 182-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 17 and first frost around October 16.
Your Brown County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Brown County (Zone 6a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.