A broccoli plant

Optimal Planting Times for Broccoli in Alaska

Planting MethodActivityRecommended Dates
Spring PlantingIndoor Seed StartingMarch 15 – April 15
Transplant OutdoorsMay 15 – June 15
Direct SowingMay 1 – May 15
Fall PlantingIndoor Seed StartingJune 15 – July 15
Transplant OutdoorsAugust 1 – August 15
Direct SowingJune 15 – July 15

Climate

Alaska’s climate ranges from USDA Hardiness Zones 1 to 7, significantly impacting planting schedules. The state experiences short growing seasons and cool temperatures, making precise timing essential.

Read more on the different growing zone here:

Hardiness zone 1

Hardiness zone 1b

Starting Broccoli Indoors

Example: In Anchorage, AK (Zone 4b), start broccoli seeds indoors around mid-March to mid-April. This allows you to transplant seedlings outside in mid-May to mid-June.

  • What You’ll Need: Seed trays, high-quality potting mix, grow lights or a sunny window, and a consistent watering schedule.
  • How to Do It: Fill seed trays with potting mix, sow seeds about ¼ inch deep, keep the soil moist, and ensure they get plenty of light.

Direct Sowing in the Soil

Example: In Fairbanks, AK (Zone 2a), you can sow seeds directly in the garden from early May to mid-May for a spring crop, and from mid-June to mid-July for a fall crop.

  • Preparing the Soil: Work the soil until it’s fine, mix in some compost, and ensure good drainage.
  • Sowing Seeds: Plant seeds ½ inch deep, spaced about 3 inches apart. Once seedlings have a few true leaves, thin them to 12-18 inches apart.

Transplanting Broccoli Seedlings

Example: For gardeners in Juneau, AK (Zone 6b), start seeds indoors in mid-March and transplant them into the garden in mid-May.

  • Preparing the Garden Bed: Make sure the soil is rich in organic matter and has a pH between 6.0 and 7.0.
  • Transplanting Technique: Space seedlings 18-24 inches apart in rows 24-36 inches apart. Water thoroughly after transplanting and apply mulch to retain moisture.

General Care and Maintenance

Watering and Feeding: Broccoli requires consistent moisture, especially during dry spells. Water at the base to avoid wetting the leaves, and use a balanced vegetable fertilizer as needed.

Pest and Disease Management: Be aware of pests like aphids and cabbage worms. Use floating row covers and organic pesticides if necessary. Rotate crops and remove plant debris to prevent disease.

Harvesting Broccoli: Harvest the heads when they are firm and tight, before the flowers start to open. Cut the main head with part of the stem attached, and the plant will often produce smaller side shoots for a continued harvest.

BeeJay
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