Broccoli is a great candidate for spring and fall growing.
Indoor Sowing Tips:
In order to germinate, broccoli seeds prefer soil temperatures between 55 and 75°F.
Sow the seeds in seed trays 1/4″ deep around 1 1/2 months before the last average spring frost and 3 months prior to the first average fall frost under grow lights.
While I initially water the seeds from above until the seeds germinate, I switch to water from below in the seed tray.
Transplant the broccoli seedlings to a 4 inch pot in the grow room once there are a few sets of true leaves and continue to water them from below in the seed tray.
Don’t forget to harden off the seedlings before transplanting in mid to late spring or late summer.
According to most seed companies, it is suggested to space the broccoli seedlings about 1 to 2 feet apart. I plant my seedlings 1 foot apart.
Outdoor Sowing Tips:
Sow the seeds in the ground about 1/4 inch deep 1 to 2 feet apart around 1 1/2 months before the last spring frost or 2 to 3 months before the average first fall frost.
While I initially water the seeds from above until the seeds germinate, then continue to use the drip system.
Growing Tips:
You can extend the planting and transplanting schedules and be prepared for crazy temperature swings by using pvc hoops tunnels and garden fabric.
Provide compost when planting and liquid fish or seaweed plant food or a plant food that is higher in nitrogen once a month or as needed.
Keep broccoli seedlings and plants moist but not soggy by using a drip system.
Since broccoli can be attacked by slugs, I use Sluggo Plus to get rid of them.
Also, since broccoli is a member of the Brassica Family, I secure mosquito netting over my pvc hoop tunnels to keep out the cabbage moths and other pests.
Since broccoli loves cooler weather and the roots are shallow, you may want to use a shade cloth over hoops in the afternoon and use some leaf mulch.
