When to plant Kai Lan in Jackson County, IA
For Kai Lan in Jackson County, the safe spring window opens around April 3 and closes around April 24. Last expected frost is April 17, first fall frost October 16, giving a 182-day growing season. A second sowing from August 7 to August 21 extends the harvest into fall.
When to Plant Kai Lan in Jackson County, IA
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.
Jackson County, Iowa is in USDA Zone 5a. 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 1,321 feet, Jackson County receives approximately 35.1 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 85°F, providing good warmth for Kai Lan during the growing season.
Jackson County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.2-6.9
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 | — | 1.6" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 1.5" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | — | 2.3" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Apr | 4.3" | 3.9" | 0.4" | 💧 Light watering |
| May | 4.3" | 4.1" | 0.2" | 💧 Light watering |
| Jun | 4.3" | 4" | 0.3" | 💧 Light watering |
| Jul | 4.3" | 4.4" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Aug | 4.3" | 3.9" | 0.4" | 💧 Light watering |
| Sep | 4.3" | 2.6" | 1.7" | 💧 Light watering |
| Oct | 4.3" | 2.5" | 1.8" | 💧 Light watering |
| Nov | — | 2.3" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Dec | — | 2" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Apr–Oct in Jackson County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Kai Lan Planting Timeline — Jackson County, IA
Kai Lan 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 5 | Jun 5 – Jul 3 |
| Fall Sowing | August 7 | Aug 7 – Aug 21 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 6" apart · Rows 12" 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
45–60 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7.5 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 5a
📆 Growing Season
182 days in Jackson County
Growing Tips for Jackson 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 Jackson County, IA?
Jackson County is in Zone 5a with an average last frost of April 17. Plan your Kai Lan planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Jackson County, IA?
Jackson County, Iowa is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5a. The average last spring frost is April 17 and first fall frost is October 16.
When should I plant Kai Lan in Jackson County, IA?
In Jackson County, IA, plant Kai Lan 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 Jackson County, IA for Kai Lan?
Jackson County sits in USDA Zone 5a. Kai Lan grows reliably in zones 2a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Kai Lan grow in Jackson County's climate?
Yes — Kai Lan grows well in Jackson County's temperate climate. Jackson County averages a 182-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 17 and first frost around October 16.
Your Jackson County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Jackson County (Zone 5a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.