Learn how to grow Broccoli with this handy guide. Find out the sun requirements, spacing, planting, feeding, and harvesting tips for this delicious vegetable!

Soil

What soil is good for Broccoli?

Broccoli plants require rich, deep soil, firm with plenty of well rotted compost mixed in. 

Position

How much sun does Broccoli need?

Plant Broccoli in a full sun position.

While Broccoli plants will tolerate partial sun, it will affect the size and growth of the broccoli head.  

Frost Tolerant

Is Broccoli frost tolerant?

Yes, Broccoli plants are frost tolerant. 

Spacing

How much space does Broccoli need?

Plant Broccoli around 45-50cm apart. 

Planting

When should I plant Broccoli?

Broccoli is a cool season crop that is usually planted in autumn, depending on your climate. 

Seeds can be sown indoors in late summer and transplanted in autumn. Seeds can also be direct sown in autumn. 

If transplanting, plant out in the early morning or evening and/or on an overcast day. Avoid planting at peak sun times or on windy days, this will allow your plants to settle in comfortably and protect them from windburn and sunburn. 

Feeding

What do I feed Broccoli?

Feed your Broccoli plants with a regular application of organic fertiliser throughout the season. 

Harvesting

When can I harvest Broccoli?

Harvest the Broccoli by cutting off the large central head while it is still compact. If left too long it will start to separate and then flower.

After the central head of Broccoli has been harvested, smaller side shoots will soon appear, you can harvest these shoots throughout the season.  

Pests

What pests does Broccoli get?

Pests that can affect Broccoli plants include: Aphids, Slug, Snail, Cabbage Moth, Cabbage White Butterfly, Diamondback Moth, Flea Beetle, Cabbage Worm, Thrips, Root Knot Nematode, Cabbage Looper, 28 Spotted Ladybug. 

Diseases

What diseases does Broccoli get?

Diseases that can affect Broccoli plants include: Alternaria Leaf Spot, Brassica Black Rot, Club Root, Downy Mildew, Sclerotinia Stem Rot, White Rust, Black Leg, Damping- off. 

Troubleshooting

How do I troubleshoot my growing problems?

Protect young Broccoli seedlings from pests at the time of planting.

Regularly check the undersides of leaves for eggs, or use fine mesh/exclusion netting to prevent white butterflies laying eggs on the underside of leaves, caterpillars can be detrimental to this plant. 

 

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