Regarding cabbage crops, you probably think of broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, kale, etc. Today, we’re focusing on broccoli, which is rich in vitamins A, K, and C, as well as fiber and folate. Studies show that regularly consuming broccoli can lower the risk of cancer and heart disease.
Broccoli is a cold-tolerant vegetable that grows best in temperatures between 60°F and 70°F. Although growing broccoli in your organic garden takes some time and space, the rewards are totally worth it - it’s delicious, healthy, and a great side dish to sous vide ribeye steak or smoked brisket.
So, put on your gloves and let’s get you on the path to becoming an expert at growing broccoli!
When to Plant Broccoli?
Broccoli is a hardy crop that can withstand light fall frosts. It thrives in cooler temperatures, ideally between 60°F and 70°F, although it can handle a range from 45°F to 80°F. This temperature preference may not sound like much, but broccoli needs at least 60 days of growth to mature properly, making timing its growth a bit challenging. If it gets too hot, your broccoli might bolt, meaning it will go to seed and turn bitter.
There are two main times to plant broccoli - in the spring and the fall. For spring planting, sow the seeds about 2-4 weeks before the last frost. For the fall crop, aim to plant around 85-100 days before the first frost. You can find information for your area in the Almanac Frost Dates.
However, if you have a grow room or greenhouse, then things become much easier. Just set up a temperature controller and grow lights to simulate the optimal natural growing environment, and you can grow broccoli in no time.
How to Grow Broccoli from Seed?
First things first, not all broccoli is the same. There are several types, but the two most common are Calabrese, which is the classic dark green variety, and sprouting broccoli, known for its smaller heads and more side branches. If you’re new to growing broccoli, calabrese is a good choice to start because it’s reliable and produces well.
To plant, use a quality potting mix and plant the seeds about half an inch deep, spacing them 18 inches apart in rows that are 24 inches apart. This setup gives them plenty of room to grow. Just keep the soil moist but not soggy, and you should see sprouts in about two weeks.
Broccoli Growing Requirements & Care Tips
To cultivate robust broccoli plants that produce a bountiful harvest, it’s essential to grasp and manage several key elements of care.
Soil
The foundation of any successful garden lies in the soil. Broccoli prefers well-drained, moist, and fertile soil rich in organic matter. Ideally, the soil pH range should be between 6.0 and 7.0. If the soil is more acidic, you can add some lime. But if it’s more alkaline, a bit of sulfur will do the trick. Before planting, amend the soil with well-rotted manure or compost, but do not use fresh manure as it can breed harmful bacteria.
Sunlight
Broccoli needs at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day to grow best. Ideally, broccoli should be planted in a spot that faces south. If you have taller plants or buildings nearby, make sure your broccoli still gets enough sunlight. In places where the days are shorter during the growing season, consider using reflective surfaces or growing lights to enhance light exposure.
Watering
Broccoli likes moisture, so make sure to water it consistently, but don’t overdo it. A general rule of thumb is to provide about 1 to 1.5 inches of water each week, either through rainfall or supplemental watering. When watering, focus on the roots instead of the leaves to keep the broccoli heads dry. Adding mulch like compost, shredded leaves, or fine bark can help retain the soil moisture and regulate temperatures while suppressing weeds.
Fertilizing
Broccoli needs plenty of fertilizer. Starting by applying a balanced fertilizer like 10-10-10 when planting. Once your seedlings are about 4-6 inches tall, fertilize again with 5-10-15. After that, keep fertilizing every 4 to 6 weeks. Just be careful not to over-fertilize, as too much fertilizer can result in lush foliage and fewer edible heads.
Pruning
Broccoli usually doesn’t require frequent pruning, but if you notice any yellowing or damaged leaves, cut them off promptly. After you’ve harvested the main stem, you can encourage the growth of secondary side shoots by pruning the plant just above the leaf nodes. These side shoots can provide a smaller second harvest, extending your growing season and maximizing your yield.
Pest & Disease Management
Like any garden plant, broccoli can fall victim to pests and diseases. You might encounter common nuisances like aphids, cabbage worms, and flea beetles, which can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil. If you see green caterpillars, just pluck them off by hand. Fortunately, once the first frost hits, those pests should stop bothering you.
If you notice the lower leaves of your broccoli turning yellow and the issue spreads upward, try using a high-nitrogen, low-phosphorus fertilizer. Also, avoid growing broccoli in the same location year after year to avoid soil-borne diseases, and consider companion planting with insect-repellent herbs and flowers.
When to Harvest Broccoli?
Broccoli typically grows from seed to a mature head of around 6-8 inches wide in about 70 to 100 days. After transplanting the seedlings, you can expect to harvest broccoli in 50 to 60 days.
When it’s time to pick, use a sharp knife to cut the main head while leaving some side branches for continued growth. For the best flavor and crispness, harvest it on a cool morning. In the fridge, broccoli stays fresh for about 10 days, but if you want to keep it longer, using a vacuum sealer can help maintain its freshness.
