There are different types of broccoli - annual green or, more rarely, purple broccoli; "romanesco", which has yellowish green, conical groups of buds arranged in spirals; and sprouting broccoli, an overwintering annual or perennial, rarely grown in this country. Varieties differ in compactness and number of sprouting lateral heads. Broccoli is an excellent home garden vegetable when insects are controlled.
Buy transplants locally or produce your own and set them April 1 to 15, or by August 1 for a fall crop. Transplants for a fall setting can be produced along with cabbage and cauliflower transplants, taking about four to six weeks from seeding to setting. Broccoli does much better as a fall crop. Set plants 14 to 18 inches apart in rows 30 inches apart. Use starter fertilizer for transplants.
The heads of broccoli are a mass of flower buds which must be harvested before the flowers open to show yellow. When mature, the central head measures 6 to 9 inches across. Lateral heads are smaller. When harvesting, cut 5 to 6 inches of the stem and acccompanying leaves with the head. Use or freeze broccoli soon after harvesting.
