GARDEN IDEAS
Growing Broccoli
(from 'How to Grow Broccoli' - see below)
​
Broccoli has its roots in ancient times, although it wasn’t cultivated for home use until around the 1600’s. The broccoli we know and love today started its commercial journey about a century ago.
Although it's best to eat broccoli before the heads start to flower, if you have an abundance of broccoli in the garden, leave a few to grow on - the flowers are edible too!
​
Healthy reasons for growing broccoli:
Broccoli has a reputation of being a super-food and contains many healthy vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Purple sprouting broccoli has more antioxidants than regular green broccoli but there are plenty of healthy reasons to eat both.
​
There are a number of different types of broccoli, including dwarf varieties that can be grown in containers if your garden space is limited. Broccoli plants don’t tend to grow huge, so most varieties will grow well in containers.
Broccoli 'Red Arrow' (Purple Sprouting)
An extremely useful and easy to grow, hardy winter vegetable that can be harvested during late February and March.
Thompson and Morgan UK have some wonderful brassica varieties. This purple sprouting type is my favourite. Packet of 100 seeds only £2.99! (at time of writing they have a special offer of four for the price of three)
Broccoli is part of the brassica family and won’t do well in acidic soil. Checking the acid/alkali balance of your soil is fairly straightforward. Testing kits are available from most good garden suppliers. Add lime to the soil a few days or weeks before sowing or planting brassicas if necessary.
​
Broccoli likes a sunny spot, but many varieties will cope with partial shade. Check on your variety before deciding the exact location. Many brassica plants have a long growing period and may be vulnerable to inclement weather at the beginning or end of the season. Choose a spot that’s sheltered from wind or frost pockets.
​
Allow about 18-24 inches (45-60cm) between plants and at least 2ft (60cm) between rows. (Double check on your seed packet. Dwarf varieties will need less space).
​
If you’ve decided to grow broccoli in containers, make sure they are well-drained and full of good potting compost. Plant seedlings into pots and containers as you would outside and keep a weather eye on them! Containers dry out quickly and your broccoli plants will need watering regularly during dry periods, or if you keep your container sheltered from the rain. Check the soil regularly.
Download this step-by-step guide to growing broccoli successfully. There are a few recipes to enjoy as well :-)
Find your preferred retailer here: