Imperial is a broccoli variety that produces medium-sized heads with tight, small beads. It thrives under long-day conditions, making it a great option for spring planting. This variety is known for its good heat tolerance and reliable performance, offering gardeners consistent, high- quality heads for fresh use or cooking.
Broccoli Growing Guide
Outdoor Sowing (Directly in the Garden)
- Timing: Sow broccoli seeds outdoors 2-4 weeks before the last frost date in spring. For a fall harvest, sow seeds in late summer or early fall, about 85â€"100 days before the first expected frost.
- Location: Choose a sunny spot with well-draining, fertile soil. Broccoli thrives in cool temperatures and can tolerate partial shade, especially in warmer climates.
- Soil Preparation: Loosen the soil to a depth of 12 inches and incorporate compost or well-rotted manure to improve fertility and drainage. Broccoli prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH of 6.0-7.0.
- Planting Seeds:
- Sow seeds 1/2 inch deep and 3 inches apart in rows.
- Space rows 18-24 inches apart for adequate airflow and easy access.
- Thinning: Thin seedlings to 12-18 inches apart once they are about 2-3 inches tall to give each plant room to grow.
- Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply and regularly, especially during dry spells.
Indoor Sowing (Starting Seeds Indoors)
- Timing: Start broccoli seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost date for an earlier harvest.
- Containers: Use seed trays or small pots with good drainage, filled with a light, well-draining seed-starting mix.
- Planting:
- Sow seeds 1/4-1/2 inch deep, placing 1-2 seeds per cell or pot.
- Cover lightly with soil and water gently.
- Germination:
- Maintain a temperature of 65-75°F for optimal germination.
- Expect seedlings to emerge within 7-10 days.
- Transplanting: Transplant seedlings outdoors when soil temperatures are consistently above 50°F and plants have 4-5 true leaves. Space plants 12-18 inches apart in rows.
General Care Tips for Broccoli
- Sunlight: Provide full sun for best growth, but broccoli can tolerate partial shade, especially in warmer climates.
- Watering: Water consistently to keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy. Mulch around plants to retain soil moisture and reduce weeds.
- Fertilizing: Broccoli is a heavy feeder. Enrich the soil with compost before planting and side-dress with a balanced fertilizer every 3-4 weeks during the growing season.
- Weeding: Keep the area weed-free to reduce competition for nutrients and moisture. Be careful not to disturb the shallow roots when weeding.
- Pest and Disease Control: Monitor for pests like cabbage worms and aphids. Use row covers to protect young plants, and remove pests manually or use organic insecticides as needed.
- Harvesting: Harvest broccoli when the main head is firm and compact, before the flower buds open. Cut the central head with 6-8 inches of stem attached. After harvesting, the plant will produce smaller side shoots for an extended harvest.
- Succession Planting: To ensure a continuous harvest, sow seeds every 2-3 weeks during the growing season.
