Broccoli is a green vegetable that resembles a mini tree. Although regular broccoli does not overwinter well, broccoli could be timed well for a fall harvest, and side shoots continue to produce into cold weather.
Similarly, to cauliflower, this versatile crop can be eaten raw or prepared in lots of different ways, as one of the plenty healthy vegetables that can contribute to optimal health. The crown portion tastes good when cooked or steamed, and leftover broccoli seeds make nutritious sprouts and microgreens.
Broccoli is high in vitamins A, C and K, rich in dietary fibre, minerals, and bioactive compounds. It can enhance your health by improving blood sugar control, boosting immunity, and promoting heart health.
Timing: Start sowing indoors under bright lights, 15-17 weeks before the first average frost date. Then transplant to the garden in August, approximately 10-12 weeks before first frost. Transplants should be set outdoors by the time your crop has 6-8 true leaves. The optimal soil temperature for germination is 10-30°C (50-85°F).
Sowing: Sow 3-4 seeds per pot, 5mm (¼ ‘’) deep. Thin to the strongest plant. Space transplants 45-60cm (18-24’’) apart in rows 75-90cm (30-36’’) apart.
Plant with humus-rich soil amended with composted manure and mix ¼ - ½ cup of fertilizer into the soil under each plant.
Growing: Broccoli is a moderate to heavy feeder, so keeping the soil consistently moist will help grow this vegetable big. Ideal pH: 6.0 – 6.8.
Tip: Adding a 3-inch layer of mulch can help conserve moisture.
To encourage side shoots, push soil around the stems, up to the bottom of the first big leaf when plants are 20-25cm (8-10”) tall.
Harvesting: Cut the broccoli head once firm and tight, and before it separates into individual flowers that start to develop into yellow blooms. Leave 5-6 inches of stem.
Removing the crown of the broccoli will stimulate regrowth for later pickings. Side shoots can be harvested right into the fall.
Protection: Use a lightweight row cover or cloche tunnel to protect from cabbage moths and before the first heavy frost. On warmer days, feel free to leave garden bed open during the day, and then close it again late afternoon, to keep heat within.
Pests and Disease: Cabbage worms and aphids like to feed and cause damage on broccoli leaves. Handpick as many as you can or treat serious infestations with insecticides containing Bacillus thuringiensis or Spinosad.
To reduce disease, avoid planting broccoli or other Brassicas in the same location more than one every 3-4 years.