When to plant Broccoli in Jefferson County, IL
In Jefferson County, plant Broccoli in spring between March 26 and April 16, once soil temps hold above 50°F. Jefferson County's last frost averages April 9, so time plantings around the expected last-frost window for best survival. For a fall crop, sow between August 11 and August 25 — roughly 60–90 days before the first frost on October 20.
When to Plant Broccoli in Jefferson 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.
Jefferson County, Illinois is in USDA Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 9 and the first fall frost is October 20, giving you a growing season of approximately 194 days.
At an elevation of 509 feet, Jefferson County receives approximately 34 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 88°F, providing good warmth for Broccoli during the growing season.
Jefferson 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 Jefferson County's 194-day season, you'll have plenty of time for a full harvest. Plan your garden layout →
Broccoli Planting Timeline — Jefferson County, IL
Broccoli Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 5 | Mar 5 – Mar 19 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 9 | Apr 9 – Apr 23 |
| Direct Sow | March 26 | Mar 26 – Apr 16 |
| Harvest | June 11 | Jun 11 – Jul 23 |
| Fall Sowing | August 11 | Aug 11 – Aug 25 |
Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Start Indoors Direct Sow |
| April | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| May | — |
| 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 6b
📆 Growing Season
194 days in Jefferson County
Growing Tips for Jefferson 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 Jefferson County, IL?
Jefferson County is in Zone 6b with an average last frost of April 9. Plan your Broccoli planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Jefferson County, IL?
Jefferson County, Illinois is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 9 and first fall frost is October 20.
When should I plant Broccoli in Jefferson County, IL?
In Jefferson County, IL, plant Broccoli after the last frost (around April 9) and before the first frost (around October 20). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Jefferson County, IL for Broccoli?
Jefferson County sits in USDA Zone 6b. Broccoli grows reliably in zones 2a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Broccoli grow in Jefferson County's climate?
Yes — Broccoli grows well in Jefferson County's temperate climate. Jefferson County averages a 194-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 9 and first frost around October 20.
Your Jefferson County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Jefferson County (Zone 6b). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.