Broccoli developed from wild Mediterranean cabbages and has been cultivated in Italy for centuries. Most familiar varieties form one large central head followed by smaller side shoots, while sprouting types produce many smaller stems over a longer season.
The edible heads are clusters of unopened flower buds. Broccoli grows best when plants develop steadily in fertile soil and the heads mature during cool weather.
Growing Guide
Timing
Start seeds indoors about 5–7 weeks before transplanting. Set spring plants outdoors roughly 3–4 weeks before the expected last frost once they are hardened off and conditions are reasonably settled.
Broccoli forms its best heads in cool weather and may struggle when heads mature during sustained heat. For a fall crop, count backward from the variety’s days to maturity and allow extra time for slower autumn growth.
Sowing & Starting
Sow seeds ¼–½ inch deep in moist seed-starting mix. Provide bright light after emergence and keep seedlings growing steadily in cool, moderate conditions.
Harden plants gradually before transplanting and space them about 18–24 inches apart. Avoid holding seedlings too long or exposing large transplants to prolonged cold, which can lead to small, premature heads.
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