When to plant Broccoli Rabe in Flathead County, MT
Flathead County's climate puts the Broccoli Rabe spring window between May 20 and June 10. time plantings around the expected last-frost window for best survival. A second sowing from July 2 to July 16 extends the harvest into fall.
When to Plant Broccoli Rabe in Flathead County, MT
Broccoli rabe (rapini) is a brassica grown for its slightly bitter, nutty-flavored florets, leaves, and stems. It is a staple in Italian cooking.
Flathead County, Montana is in USDA Zone 5a. The average last spring frost is June 3 and the first fall frost is September 10, giving you a growing season of approximately 99 days.
At an elevation of 6,233 feet, Flathead County receives approximately 20.7 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly loam soil. Summer highs average 87°F, providing good warmth for Broccoli Rabe during the growing season.
Flathead County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Broccoli Rabe Planting Timeline — Flathead County, MT
Broccoli Rabe Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | April 29 | Apr 29 – May 13 |
| Transplant Outdoors | June 3 | Jun 3 – Jun 17 |
| Direct Sow | May 20 | May 20 – Jun 10 |
| Harvest | July 15 | Jul 15 – Aug 19 |
| Fall Sowing | July 2 | Jul 2 – Jul 16 |
Plant 1" deep · 15" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | Start Indoors |
| May | Start Indoors Direct Sow |
| June | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| July | Fall Sowing Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| 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 5a
📆 Growing Season
99 days in Flathead County
Growing Tips for Flathead 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
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Broccoli Rabe in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Broccoli Rabe in Flathead County, MT?
Flathead County is in Zone 5a with an average last frost of June 3. Plan your Broccoli Rabe planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Flathead County, MT?
Flathead County, Montana is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5a. The average last spring frost is June 3 and first fall frost is September 10.
When should I plant Broccoli Rabe in Flathead County, MT?
In Flathead County, MT, plant Broccoli Rabe after the last frost (around June 3) and before the first frost (around September 10). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Flathead County, MT for Broccoli Rabe?
Flathead County sits in USDA Zone 5a. Broccoli Rabe grows reliably in zones 2a through 10b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Broccoli Rabe grow in Flathead County's climate?
Yes — Broccoli Rabe grows well in Flathead County's temperate climate. Flathead County averages a 99-day frost-free season, with last frost around June 3 and first frost around September 10.
Your Flathead County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Flathead 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.