Broccoli
Brassica oleracea
Learn how to take care of broccoli plants along with its history and classification details.
Hardiness Zone: 2-11
Soil Type: Slightly acidic to neutral
Sun Exposure: Full sun
Annual or Perennial: Annual
Type: Vegetable
History: Native to the eastern Mediterranean and Asia Minor, sprouting broccoli was cultivated in Italy in ancient Roman times and was introduced to England and America in the 1700’s.
Plant Care
How do I plant broccoli?
Sow two seeds apiece in holes 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep. Holes should be spaced 18 inches apart in rows that are 24 inches apart. Keep the area moist with a spray bottle until germination occurs. Once you see sprouts, thin each planting area so that it only has one seedling.
Plant your broccoli where it will get least 6 hours of sun daily and has fertile, well-drained, moist soil with plenty of organic matter. Mulch will help keep the ground cool and moist.
When is the best time to plant?
The best time to plant broccoli is in spring or fall.
Can I grow broccoli in a pot?
Yes, you can grow broccoli in a pot, take care, it may outgrow the pot at some point.
How much should I water broccoli?
Broccoli should be watered 1 in of water per square foot once a week.
Do I need to fertilize broccoli?
Broccoli likes to to be fertilized frequently.
When does broccoli bloom?
Broccoli blooms from summer to fall.
How do I know when broccoli is ripe?
Broccoli heads are ready when they’re deep green with small, tightly packed buds.
When do I harvest broccoli?
How do you know when to pull broccoli plants? It is done by gestation. Broccoli should be harvested from late winter to fall.
What is the best way to store broccoli?
Fresh broccoli should be stored in a loosely closed or perforated plastic bag. Broccoli needs air circulation to stay fresh, so avoid sealing or knotting the bag.
Is a broccoli a fruit or a vegetable?
Broccoli is a vegetable.
Should I plant any companion plants?
Broccoli grows well with Beets, Celery, Chamomile, Lettuce, Potatoes, Rhubarb, Rosemary, Shallots
What are the health benefits of the broccoli?
Broccoli is a superfood, a natural food that is nutritious and lower in calories. The benefits of eating broccoli every day include that it is high in antioxidants and vitamin C, calcium, glucosinolates, potassium, and soluble fiber.
Mini Chicken and Broccoli Pot Pie
Broccoli is a great vegetable to give substance and flavor to a dish. Check out how it adds substance to this pot pie.
Listen to your broccoli and it will tell you how to eat.
~Anne Lamott