When to plant Broccoli in Lee County, IA
Lee County gardeners should plant Broccoli between April 2 and April 23 in spring. With Lee County's Zone 6a climate (last frost April 16), Broccoli needs 60–90 days to mature — plant by July 20 for a full harvest. A second sowing from August 9 to August 23 extends the harvest into fall.
When to Plant Broccoli in Lee County, IA
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.
Lee County, Iowa is in USDA Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is April 16 and the first fall frost is October 18, giving you a growing season of approximately 185 days.
At an elevation of 1,393 feet, Lee County receives approximately 36.8 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 84°F, so choose short-season varieties of Broccoli to ensure they mature before fall.
Lee 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 Lee County's 185-day season, you'll have plenty of time for a full harvest. Plan your garden layout →
Broccoli Planting Timeline — Lee County, IA
Broccoli Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 12 | Mar 12 – Mar 26 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 16 | Apr 16 – Apr 30 |
| Direct Sow | April 2 | Apr 2 – Apr 23 |
| Harvest | June 18 | Jun 18 – Jul 30 |
| Fall Sowing | August 9 | Aug 9 – Aug 23 |
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 | — |
| 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
185 days in Lee County
Growing Tips for Lee 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 Lee County, IA?
Lee County is in Zone 6a with an average last frost of April 16. Plan your Broccoli planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Lee County, IA?
Lee County, Iowa is in USDA Hardiness Zone 6a. The average last spring frost is April 16 and first fall frost is October 18.
When should I plant Broccoli in Lee County, IA?
In Lee County, IA, plant Broccoli after the last frost (around April 16) and before the first frost (around October 18). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Lee County, IA for Broccoli?
Lee 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 Lee County's climate?
Yes — Broccoli grows well in Lee County's temperate climate. Lee County averages a 185-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 16 and first frost around October 18.
Your Lee County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Lee 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.