Planting guide · zone 8a
When to plant broccoli in zone 8a
In zone 8a, the average last spring frost is Mar 25 and the first fall frost is Nov 12. Here is broccoli's whole year, counted from those dates.
Jan 28Start seeds indoorsSpring
Mar 4Transplant into the gardenSpring
Jul 30Start seeds indoorsFall
Sep 3Transplant into the gardenFall
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
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.