How to Grow Broccoli: A Detailed Guide

Broccoli is a nutrient-rich vegetable that’s a great addition to your diet. It is part of the Brassica family and is high in vitamins and anti-cancer agents. There are a few broccoli varieties that come in purple and green, similar to Calabrese. But broccoli is an over-winter vegetable, whereas Calabrese can be harvested before winter begins. 

As well as saving money, growing broccoli sprouts yourself guarantees the freshest produce. At Allotment Online, we’re here to assist you throughout your process of planting and growing broccoli. Follow our guide to learn our tips on how to grow broccoli sprouts successfully.

Where and When to Plant Broccoli

Generally, you can sow broccoli from April to June outdoors, and a bit earlier if you’re sowing indoors. Sow the broccoli seeds in trays first or straight into their beds approximately 1-2cm deep. Allow them plenty of space apart so that the plant can grow about 30cm. 

You’ll want to protect your crop with netting or mesh because birds love broccoli, and they’re also prone to white fly and slugs. 

How to Harvest Broccoli

For broccoli to grow, a sheltered spot in well-drained soil is best, with watering during dry spells. You may need to use stakes if you have a windy plot, and you can earth up the soil to taller stems to help with this. 

You can stagger your sowing for a longer cropping season. Like other Brassicas, broccoli plants tend to be ready at the same time and should be harvested when the buds have formed but are yet to flower. 

For broccoli to flourish, regular care is needed. It’s essential to water your plants regularly, particularly in dry spells. Mulching the area surrounding the plants can also help suppress weeds and retain moisture. To encourage the strong development of your plants, use fertiliser every few weeks.

When to Pick Broccoli

When the heads are completely formed before the flowers emerge, your broccoli plant is ready to be harvested. This normally happens 60–100 days after planting. 

Depending on sowing times and varieties, you can potentially harvest broccoli from the summer through until early spring the following year. You can harvest the broccoli heads/spears by cutting the centre stem first, followed by the surrounding smaller ones. 

Harvest in the morning when the heads are crisp and firm for the best flavour. Broccoli can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. It’s best enjoyed fresh.

Fresh steamed broccoli is delicious, and you can also freeze florets of broccoli after blanching without fully cooking. 

Common Problems with Growing Broccoli in UK

You might run into some challenges while you’re growing broccoli. Aphids, cabbage worms, and flea beetles are a few pests that might damage your plant. Using row covers and organic pesticides can help keep your plants safe. 

Rotating crops and properly preparing the soil might also lessen these problems. Watch out for common diseases like downy mildew and clubroot as well. Consider taking preventative action if needed.

It’s possible for broccoli plants to ‘bolt,’ or go to seed too soon—especially in hot weather. This is less likely in the UK, which sees cooler summers. But if you’re worried about the effects of the occasional heatwave, planting heat-resistant varieties and watering your plants frequently can help prevent this.