Broccoli
Brassica oleracea var. italica
Also known as: Broccoli
Cool-season brassica that produces a large central head followed by smaller side shoots. Best in spring or fall.
Growing Requirements
Planting Schedule
Start Indoors
6–8 weeks before last frost
Transplant Outdoors
-3–9 weeks after last frost
Fall Sow
12–14 weeks before first frost
Germination
5–10 days
Days to Harvest
60–90 days
Zone Suitability
USDA Hardiness Zones
Zones 2–11
Harvest central head before flowers open. Side shoots extend harvest by weeks.
Companion Plants
Good Companions (7)
Nasturtium
Tropaeolum majus
Trap crop for aphids and cabbage moths
Confidence: High
Onion
Allium cepa
Allium scent deters cabbage moths from broccoli
Confidence: Medium
Garlic
Allium sativum
Deters cabbage worms with allium compounds
Confidence: Medium
Thyme
Thymus vulgaris
Aromatic oils deter cabbage moths
Confidence: Medium
Rosemary
Salvia rosmarinus
Strong scent deters cabbage moths from brassicas
Confidence: Medium
Marigold
Tagetes spp.
Deters nematodes and general pests
Confidence: Medium
Beet
Beta vulgaris
Compatible root depths; no nutrient competition
Confidence: Medium