When to plant Kai Lan in Madison County, IA
In Madison County, plant Kai Lan in spring between April 10 and May 1, once soil temps hold above 50°F. Madison County's last frost averages April 24, so time plantings around the expected last-frost window for best survival. For a fall crop, sow between August 2 and August 16 — roughly 45–60 days before the first frost on October 11.
When to Plant Kai Lan in Madison 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.
Madison County, Iowa is in USDA Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is April 24 and the first fall frost is October 11, giving you a growing season of approximately 170 days.
At an elevation of 1,022 feet, Madison County receives approximately 40.6 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly silt loam soil. Summer highs average 84°F, so choose short-season varieties of Kai Lan to ensure they mature before fall.
Madison County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Kai Lan Planting Timeline — Madison County, IA
Kai Lan Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | March 20 | Mar 20 – Apr 3 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 24 | Apr 24 – May 8 |
| Direct Sow | April 10 | Apr 10 – May 1 |
| Harvest | June 12 | Jun 12 – Jul 10 |
| Fall Sowing | August 2 | Aug 2 – Aug 16 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 6" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | Start Indoors |
| April | Start Indoors Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| May | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| 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 5b
📆 Growing Season
170 days in Madison County
Growing Tips for Madison 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
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Kai Lan in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Kai Lan in Madison County, IA?
Madison County is in Zone 5b with an average last frost of April 24. Plan your Kai Lan planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Madison County, IA?
Madison County, Iowa is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is April 24 and first fall frost is October 11.
When should I plant Kai Lan in Madison County, IA?
In Madison County, IA, plant Kai Lan after the last frost (around April 24) and before the first frost (around October 11). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Madison County, IA for Kai Lan?
Madison County sits in USDA Zone 5b. Kai Lan grows reliably in zones 2a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Kai Lan grow in Madison County's climate?
Yes — Kai Lan grows well in Madison County's temperate climate. Madison County averages a 170-day frost-free season, with last frost around April 24 and first frost around October 11.
Your Madison County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Madison County (Zone 5b). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.