Planting and Growing Guide for Broccoli and Broccolini (Brassica sp.)
Description
Broccoli is a cool-season crop that can be used in a variety of ways. The popular Broccolini variety is grown for its stems. It has a milder flavor. Broccoli seeds will not germinate in soils with temperatures below about 40 degrees F (5 degrees C). Broccoli requires a sunny position and needs to be kept well watered. It is best grown in fairly rich, well drained soil that is slightly acidic. High yields require manure and compost to be added before and during the growing season. Harvest your broccoli when the head buds are firm and tight, well before the heads start to soften and begin flowering. Most varieties can yield more than once as the side-shoots will continue to develop after the main head is cut and harvested.
Planting Guide
Seed Depth: Sow seed directly in the soil at a depth about 8 mm (1/2 inch). Grow in seed trays in sheltered areas in the winter and plant out in spring/summer.
Space between plants: 25-50 cm (12-24 inches). Thin out seedlings, or replant from seed trays.
Harvest Time: Harvest in about 10-15 weeks.
Hints:
- Keep well watered especially just before harvest
- Grow best in full sun and cool conditions
- Take care when weeding as the roots are quite shallow. Use a heavy layer of mulch to smother weeds
- Control pests such as the cabbage white butterfly
- Add calcium (dolomite or lime) to help keep the soil acidic
- Broccoli stems (peeled), leaves, and flower heads are all edible
- Discard shoots that have open yellow flowers as the flavor is poor
- There are may varieties of broccoli. Choose the type that suits your tastes and which grows best in your area .
Disclaimer: The PlantWhatWhen vegetable planting guide is only designed for use as a very general reference for home gardening purposes. It is not to be used for farming, markets or commercial activities of any kind whatsoever. We take absolutely no responsibility for the accuracy and adequacy of the information provided on this site. We recommend that you consider your local climate, weather patterns and conditions when deciding what and when to plant in your home garden. It's entirely your own decision. Happy Gardening and Best Wishes!