How to Grow Broccoli
Broccoli is a cool-season crop — it actively resists heat. Understanding this one fact makes everything else about growing it make sense.
Broccoli grows best when daytime temperatures are between 65°F and 75°F (18-24°C). It bolts (flowers and turns bitter) quickly in summer heat. In most climates, this means spring planting for late spring/early summer harvest, or late summer planting for fall harvest. The fall crop is often better — the head quality improves as temperatures cool toward harvest.
Start HereGrowing Broccoli from Seed
Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost. Transplant timing, hardening off, direct sow vs. indoor start.
Read more →Companion Plants for Broccoli
Plants that benefit broccoli (dill, marigolds, onions) and plants to keep away (strawberries, tomatoes).
Read more →Most ImportantWhen to Harvest Broccoli
The tight-bud window. How to know before it flowers. What happens if you miss it.
Read more →Growing Broccoli in Containers
Minimum pot size (5 gallons), varieties that work in containers, balcony growing guide.
Read more →