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Broccoli Types and Growing Tips
For more on broccoli, including planting, growing, harvesting, cooking and storage tips, see Growing Broccoli.
Type |
Description |
Varieties |
Large-headed broccoli(Brassica oleracea, Botrytis group) |
Big heads need plenty of space to grow. Crowding reduces head size, but miniature varieties such as ‘Munchkin’ work well in tight spaces. Many varieties produce side shoots after the primary head has been harvested. | ‘Arcadia’ |
| Sprouting broccoli (Brassica oleracea, Italica group) 50 to 70 days, spring 65 to 90 days, fall |
Small heads are very tender. Cut often to encourage steady production. Best grown from midsummer to fall in most climates, or from fall to spring where winters are mild. | ‘Calabrese’ ‘De Cicco’ ‘Purple Peacock’ ‘Purple Sprouting’ |
| Romanesco broccoli (Brassica oleracea, Botrytis group) 75 to 90 days, spring 85 to 100 days, fall |
Large upright plants need plenty of elbow room, rich soil, regular water and temperatures in the 80-degree range. Satisfied plants produce spiraled heads with the crunch of cauliflower. | ‘Natalino’ ‘Romanesco Italia’ ‘Veronica’ |
| Broccoli raab (Brassica rapa, Ruvo group) 40 to 55 days, spring 50 to 75 days, fall |
A fast-growing crop for cool weather. Vigorous plants produce continuously for several weeks. The leaves and stems are as tender and edible as the buds. | ‘Early Fall Rapini’ |
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