A broccoli plant

Planting MethodActivityRecommended Dates
Spring PlantingIndoor Seed StartingFebruary 15 – March 15
Transplant OutdoorsApril 15 – May 15
Direct SowingApril 1 – May 1
Fall PlantingIndoor Seed StartingJune 15 – July 15
Transplant OutdoorsAugust 1 – September 1
Direct SowingJuly 1 – August 1

Planting Conditions in Delaware

Delaware’s climate falls within USDA Hardiness Zones 7a to 7b, characterized by mild winters and warm summers with occasional humidity. Proper planting timing is key to navigating these conditions for a successful broccoli harvest.

Starting Broccoli Indoors

Example: In Wilmington, DE (Zone 7a), start broccoli seeds indoors from mid-February to mid-March. This schedule allows for transplanting seedlings outdoors from mid-April to mid-May.

  • Required Materials: Seed trays, high-quality potting mix, grow lights or a bright window, and a consistent watering routine.
  • Process: Fill seed trays with potting mix, sow seeds ¼ inch deep, keep soil moist, and ensure adequate light.

Direct Sowing in the Soil

Example: In Dover, DE (Zone 7b), direct sow broccoli seeds in the garden from early April to early May for a spring crop and from early July to early August for a fall harvest.

  • Soil Preparation: Prepare the soil by tilling it finely, incorporating compost, and ensuring good drainage.
  • Sowing Instructions: Plant seeds ½ inch deep, spacing them about 3 inches apart. Once seedlings have several true leaves, thin them to 12-18 inches apart.

Transplanting Broccoli Seedlings

Example: For gardeners in Newark, DE (Zone 7a), start seeds indoors around mid-February and transplant them into the garden from mid-April to mid-May.

  • Bed Preparation: Enrich the soil with organic matter and maintain a pH level between 6.0 and 7.0.
  • Transplanting Guidelines: Space seedlings 18-24 inches apart in rows 24-36 inches apart. After transplanting, water thoroughly and apply mulch to help retain soil moisture.

General Care and Maintenance

Watering and Fertilization: Broccoli requires regular watering, especially during dry spells. Water at the base of the plants and use a balanced vegetable fertilizer as needed.

Pest and Disease Management: Monitor for pests such as aphids and cabbage worms. Utilize floating row covers and organic pest control methods as needed. Practice crop rotation and remove plant debris to reduce disease risk.

Harvesting Broccoli: Harvest heads when they are firm and tightly closed, before they start to flower. Cut the main head with part of the stem, and the plant may produce smaller side shoots for additional harvests.

BeeJay
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