Overview
A nutritious garden favorite, broccoli loves cool weather. Broccoli is rich in vitamins A, B, and C, potassium, phosphorus, and iron, with moderate amounts of protein, calcium, and thiamin.
Conditions
For soil, use a fertile well-draining potting mix that’s tailored for vegetables and high in organic matter. A consistent supply of moisture throughout the growing season is important; irrigate regularly for best results. Broccoli is a cool-weather crop - the best success is with spring and fall crops, and even winter crops where the weather is mild.
Planting
Use our grow calendar tool to find specific dates for your region! Seeds germinate in 10-21 days.
Plant indoors in starter pots or trays ~8 weeks before the desired transplant date. Keep soil temperature 75–80°F until germination, then reduce air temperature to about 60°F. Transition outside (harden) for 7 days before outdoor transplant. Space 16-18" apart for full-sized heads.
Care Tip
Do not get developing broccoli heads wet when watering, as it can cause rot. If bottom then top leaves turn yellow, add blood meal (a soil amendment high in nitrogen).
Harvest
Before flower buds open, cut the center head to harvest and immediately keep cool. Additional smaller shoots/heads will continue to grow - harvest shoots regularly to encourage continued production.
