Broccoli & Calabrese Plants

Broccoli Plants FAQs

Take a look at some of the frequently asked questions we receive from those looking to buy Broccoli Plants in the UK. You can contact our Customer Service Team or browse our general FAQs for further advice.

When to plant Broccoli Plants

The best time to plant broccoli in the UK is during early spring (around March to April) for a summer harvest or in late summer to early autumn (around July to August) for an autumn or winter harvest. Broccoli prefers cool weather, so it's important to plant it early enough to avoid the hot summer months that can cause it to bolt (flower prematurely). If starting from seed indoors, sow the seeds 6 to 8 weeks before the intended transplanting date. For early spring planting, transplant the seedlings outdoors once the risk of frost has passed and the soil temperature reaches around 10–15°C (50–59°F).

How to Plant Broccoli Plants

To plant broccoli, choose a sunny spot with well-drained, fertile soil. Prepare the soil by incorporating organic matter such as compost to improve fertility and drainage. If starting from seed indoors, sow the seeds 6 to 8 weeks before transplanting, in modules or trays, using a seed compost. Once the seedlings are about 15 cm (6 inches) tall and the risk of frost has passed, harden them off by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions for a few days. Transplant the seedlings outdoors, spacing them about 45 cm (18 inches) apart, with 60 cm (24 inches) between rows. Plant them to the same depth they were in their pots, firm the soil around the roots, and water thoroughly. Broccoli plants prefer cool weather, so ensure they have enough water throughout their growing season, and apply mulch to retain moisture and keep weeds at bay.

How long do Broccoli Plants take to grow

Broccoli plants typically take around 70 to 100 days to grow from transplanting to harvest, depending on the variety and growing conditions. If starting from seed indoors, it takes about 6 to 8 weeks to grow the seedlings before transplanting them outdoors. Once transplanted, you can expect to start harvesting the main head of the broccoli when it reaches a good size, usually in 2 to 3 months. After harvesting the main head, the plant may produce side shoots for a continued harvest.

Why Grow Broccoli Plants?

Growing broccoli plants offers several benefits, making them a valuable addition to any garden. Broccoli is a nutritious vegetable, packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, such as vitamin C, folate, and fiber, supporting overall health. It is also a cool-season crop, making it ideal for early spring or late summer planting, and can be grown in a range of climates across the UK. Broccoli plants are relatively easy to grow, with some varieties even producing side shoots after the main head is harvested, providing a continued harvest. Growing your own broccoli ensures fresh, pesticide-free produce, and can be more cost-effective compared to buying it from the store. Additionally, broccoli plants add variety and beauty to your garden with their attractive, lush foliage.

Where can you grow Broccoli Plants?

Broccoli plants thrive in sunny or partially shaded spots with well-drained, fertile soil. They are suitable for vegetable gardens, raised beds, or containers, making them ideal for both small and large gardens. Broccoli prefers cooler climates, so it is best grown in areas that don’t experience extreme heat. In the UK, it can be grown outdoors during early spring for a summer harvest or late summer for an autumn or winter crop. If you're in a cooler area or want an extended growing season, you can grow broccoli in a greenhouse or polytunnel to protect it from frosts and provide a stable growing environment.

Why Buy Broccoli Plants from Marshalls?

• Our customers are supported by a team of experts dedicated to providing valuable advice. You can also use our growing guides, backed by 70 years of experience, to get the best results from your Broccoli Plants and other plants.
• You can contact us six days a week – including bank holidays – to discuss our products and services or to chat about all things gardening.
• We pride ourselves on offering fast delivery on all orders, with any 'in stock' plants and seeds sent out within three working days. We're green-fingered in more ways than one, too, thanks to our fully recyclable packaging.
• We won second place at the 2022 Great British Growing Awards for Best Online Retailer.
• Thousands of five-star reviews on Trustpilot and a 100% satisfaction guarantee on all our products show that we're a company you can trust.