When to Plant Broccoli for Fall Harvest

Introduction

Broccoli is a cool season crop that is grown for its edible large flower heads. It is a member of the brassica family and is a nutritious vegetable that is high in vitamins and minerals. Planting broccoli in the fall is a great way to extend its growing season and harvest fresh, healthy heads of broccoli even after the summer has ended. In this article, we will look at when to plant broccoli for a successful fall harvest.

Choosing the Right Variety

The first step in successfully growing broccoli for a fall harvest is to choose the right variety. There are many different varieties of broccoli available, but not all of them are suitable for fall planting. Look for varieties that have a shorter maturity period, as they will be able to reach maturity before the frost sets in.

One of the most popular varieties for fall planting is the Green Goliath. This variety has a maturity period of around 70 days, making it a great choice for planting in mid-summer. Other varieties that are well suited for fall planting include Belstar, Waltham, and Gypsy.

Planting Schedule

To have a successful fall harvest of broccoli, it is important to plan your planting schedule carefully. The best time to start planting broccoli for a fall harvest is in mid to late summer, depending on your location. In most areas, this will be around mid-July.

When planting broccoli, it is important to ensure that it is grown in full sun and in soil that is rich in nutrients. Broccoli needs well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. It is also important to keep the soil consistently moist, especially during hot summer months.

Care and Maintenance

During the growing season, broccoli requires regular care and maintenance to ensure a healthy crop. Water the plants consistently, especially during hot, dry periods, and fertilize them with a balanced fertilizer every four to six weeks.

Broccoli is also prone to pest and disease problems, so it is important to keep a close eye on your crop and take action if you notice any issues. Common pests that can affect broccoli include aphids, cabbage worms, and flea beetles. These can be controlled with organic or chemical pesticides.

Harvesting

Broccoli is typically ready to harvest around 70 to 85 days after planting. You will know that the broccoli is ready to harvest when the head is firm and compact and the buds are still tightly closed. Use a sharp knife to cut the head from the plant, being sure to leave a few inches of stem attached.

After harvesting the main head of broccoli, most varieties will produce a secondary crop of smaller, but still edible, heads. These can be harvested as they become ready, allowing you to stretch out your harvest even further.

Conclusion

Growing broccoli for a fall harvest can be a great way to extend the growing season and enjoy fresh, healthy broccoli well into the cooler months. By choosing the right variety, planning your planting schedule carefully, and providing basic care and maintenance, you can ensure a successful fall harvest of this nutritious and delicious vegetable.