Planting guide · zone 5a
When to plant broccoli in zone 5a
In zone 5a, the average last spring frost is May 15 and the first fall frost is Oct 1. Here is broccoli's whole year, counted from those dates.
Mar 20Start seeds indoorsSpring
Apr 24Transplant into the gardenSpring
Jun 18Start seeds indoorsFall
Jul 23Transplant into the gardenFall
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Soil & site
Rich, firm, consistently moist soil. Stress at any point risks “buttoning” — tiny premature heads.
Seedling care
Set starts slightly deeper than the pot, up to the first leaves. Water in well and shade for a day if it's hot.
Growing notes
Row cover at transplant blocks cabbage moths. Steady water is non-negotiable for good heads. Rows 24–30 in.
Harvest
Cut the main head while buds are tight, with 5–6 in of stem. Side shoots keep coming for weeks after.