When to plant Broccoli Rabe in McDonough County, IL
In Zone 6a (McDonough County), direct-sow Broccoli Rabe between April 3 and April 24 for spring, after the April 17 last-frost mark. A second sowing from August 8 to August 22 extends the harvest into fall.
When to Plant Broccoli Rabe in McDonough County, IL
Broccoli rabe (rapini) is a brassica grown for its slightly bitter, nutty-flavored florets, leaves, and stems. It is a staple in Italian cooking.
McDonough County, Illinois is in USDA Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is April 17 and the first fall frost is October 17, giving you a growing season of approximately 183 days.
At an elevation of 738 feet, McDonough County receives approximately 37.3 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 84°F, so choose short-season varieties of Broccoli Rabe to ensure they mature before fall.
McDonough County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Broccoli Rabe Planting Timeline — McDonough County, IL
Broccoli Rabe 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 | May 29 | May 29 – Jul 3 |
| Fall Sowing | August 8 | Aug 8 – Aug 22 |
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 Harvest |
| 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
40–60 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7.5 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 6a
📆 Growing Season
183 days in McDonough County
Growing Tips for McDonough County
Direct sow in spring or fall. Harvest when small yellow flower buds first appear but before they open. Cut the main shoot first to encourage side shoots.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Broccoli Rabe in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Broccoli Rabe in McDonough County, IL?
McDonough County is in Zone 6a with an average last frost of April 17. Plan your Broccoli Rabe planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is McDonough County, IL?
McDonough County, Illinois is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is April 17 and first fall frost is October 17.
When should I plant Broccoli Rabe in McDonough County, IL?
In McDonough County, IL, plant Broccoli Rabe after the last frost (around April 17) and before the first frost (around October 17). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is McDonough County, IL for Broccoli Rabe?
McDonough County sits in USDA Zone 6a. Broccoli Rabe grows reliably in zones 2a through 10b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Broccoli Rabe grow in McDonough County's climate?
Yes — Broccoli Rabe grows well in McDonough County's temperate climate. McDonough County averages a 183-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 17 and first frost around October 17.
Your McDonough County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for McDonough 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.