How to Grow Broccoli from Seed
Broccoli takes 60–80 days from seed to harvest. It’s a heavy feeder and needs cool weather. After the main head, it produces side shoots for weeks.
Broccoli is a cool-season crop. It’s also a heavy feeder — it needs rich soil.
Step-by-Step
1. Start indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost. Or direct sow in fall.
2. Depth. 1/2 inch.
3. Spacing. 18 inches.
4. Sun. 6 hours.
5. Fertilize. Heavy feeder. Compost + balanced fertilizer.
6. Water. Consistently moist.
7. Harvest main head. At 4-6 inches, before flowers open.
8. Keep harvesting side shoots. For weeks after.
Common Questions
Why is my broccoli flowering? Bolting. Too warm. Harvest immediately.
How do I harvest? Cut main head at 4-6 inches.
Do side shoots come back? Yes. Cut and they produce more.
Can I grow it in summer? No. Too hot.
Do I need to fertilize? Yes. Heavy feeder.
How do I prevent cabbage worms? Row covers. Or hand-pick.