A cool-season brassica producing dense green flower heads followed by tender side shoots after the main head is cut. A rewarding winter crop in fertile, well-limed soil.
At a glance
- Plant type: Edible plant
- Mature size: 70 cm H × 50 cm W
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: moderate maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Broccoli
Botanically, Brassica oleracea var. italica is a moderate-growing edible plant in the Brassicaceae family. It reaches around 70 cm tall and 50 cm wide at maturity.
Where to grow Broccoli
Broccoli suits warm-temperate, cool-temperate and subtropical climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters.
Soil & planting
Broccoli does best in loamy, free-draining and clay soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Broccoli does best with regular, moderate watering. Feed regularly through the growing season for the best crop. Keep a newly planted specimen evenly watered through its first season; established plants can then follow the water needs above.
Pruning & care
Tip-prune Broccoli in spring to maintain a dense, shapely habit. Overall it is moderate maintenance.
Using Broccoli in the garden
Broccoli earns its place for edible harvests.
Companion planting & design
Combine Broccoli with plants that share its preference for regular, moderate watering and warm-temperate climate. Use an odd-numbered group where space allows, or repeat it at intervals through a longer bed.
Good to know
It is regarded as non-toxic and pet-safe.
Buying Broccoli
Plant Sale lists Broccoli as seedlings and seed. Current stock is confirmed manually, so register interest above before planning around a specific size.
Prefer to grow it yourself? See the Broccoli seed sowing guide for depth, timing and germination.
