When to plant Kai Lan in Montgomery County, IL
In Zone 6b (Montgomery County), direct-sow Kai Lan between March 30 and April 20 for spring, after the April 13 last-frost mark. A second sowing from August 12 to August 26 extends the harvest into fall.
When to Plant Kai Lan in Montgomery County, IL
Kai lan (Chinese broccoli) is a brassica grown for its thick, glossy stems and small flower buds. It has a slightly bitter, broccoli-like flavor essential in Cantonese cooking.
Montgomery County, Illinois is in USDA Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 13 and the first fall frost is October 21, giving you a growing season of approximately 191 days.
At an elevation of 1,331 feet, Montgomery County receives approximately 30.1 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 88°F, providing good warmth for Kai Lan during the growing season.
Montgomery County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.1-7.2
Drainage
Well Drained
Monthly Watering Guide for Kai Lan
Kai Lan needs approximately 1 inches of water per week (4.3" per month). Here's how your county's rainfall compares month by month.
| Month | Kai Lan Needs | Rainfall | You Supplement | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | — | 1.3" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 1.2" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | — | 2.1" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Apr | 4.3" | 2.6" | 1.7" | 💧 Light watering |
| May | 4.3" | 3.3" | 1" | 💧 Light watering |
| Jun | 4.3" | 3.3" | 1" | 💧 Light watering |
| Jul | 4.3" | 3.7" | 0.6" | 💧 Light watering |
| Aug | 4.3" | 3.1" | 1.2" | 💧 Light watering |
| Sep | 4.3" | 3.1" | 1.2" | 💧 Light watering |
| Oct | 4.3" | 2.4" | 1.9" | 💧 Light watering |
| Nov | — | 2.1" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Dec | — | 1.9" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Apr–Oct in Montgomery County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Kai Lan Planting Timeline — Montgomery County, IL
Kai Lan Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 9 | Mar 9 – Mar 23 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 13 | Apr 13 – Apr 27 |
| Direct Sow | March 30 | Mar 30 – Apr 20 |
| Harvest | June 1 | Jun 1 – Jun 29 |
| Fall Sowing | August 12 | Aug 12 – Aug 26 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 6" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Start Indoors Direct Sow |
| April | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| May | — |
| June | Harvest |
| July | — |
| August | Fall Sowing |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
Moderate — regular watering
📅 Days to Maturity
45–60 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7.5 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 6b
📆 Growing Season
191 days in Montgomery County
Growing Tips for Montgomery County
Direct sow in spring or fall. Harvest when flower buds first appear but before they open. Cut stems at the base to encourage side shoots. Prefers cool weather.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Kai Lan in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Kai Lan in Montgomery County, IL?
Montgomery County is in Zone 6b with an average last frost of April 13. Plan your Kai Lan planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Montgomery County, IL?
Montgomery County, Illinois is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6b. The average last spring frost is April 13 and first fall frost is October 21.
When should I plant Kai Lan in Montgomery County, IL?
In Montgomery County, IL, plant Kai Lan after the last frost (around April 13) and before the first frost (around October 21). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Montgomery County, IL for Kai Lan?
Montgomery County sits in USDA Zone 6b. Kai Lan grows reliably in zones 2a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Kai Lan grow in Montgomery County's climate?
Yes — Kai Lan grows well in Montgomery County's temperate climate. Montgomery County averages a 191-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 13 and first frost around October 21.
Your Montgomery County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Montgomery 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.