Planting guide · zone 9a
When to plant broccoli in zone 9a
In zone 9a, the average last spring frost is Feb 28 and the first fall frost is Dec 1. Here is broccoli's whole year, counted from those dates.
Jan 3Start seeds indoorsSpring
Feb 7Transplant into the gardenSpring
Aug 18Start seeds indoorsFall
Sep 22Transplant 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.