Broccoli

Planting broccoli

Start indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost and transplant out 2 to 3 weeks ahead of it. For a fall crop, sow or transplant in mid to late summer.

Planting details

• Transplant when seedlings have 4 to 5 true leaves
• Spacing: 18 to 24 inches
• Seed depth: about 1/4 to 1/2 inch

Growing requirements

Broccoli needs full sun, fertile soil, and consistent moisture. Heads form tightest as temperatures cool, which makes early spring and fall the reliable windows.

Harvesting and care

Cut the central head while the buds are still tight, then leave the plant in place for side shoots over the next few weeks. Row cover keeps cabbage worms off young plants.

Common mistakes

• Waiting for a bigger head until the buds loosen and open into flowers
• Transplanting too late in spring, which forces heads to form in heat
• Ignoring small green worms, which can skeletonize plants quickly

Companion plants

Beets, onions, lettuce, and dill fit well around broccoli. Keep it clear of tomatoes and other tall, heavy feeders that compete for light.