When to plant broccoli 🥦
Broccoli takes 55–85 days to mature, spaced 18" apart at 0.5" deep. Start indoors and transplant for the longest harvest.
Planting dates by USDA zone
| Zone | Start indoors | Transplant | Harvest |
|---|---|---|---|
| Zone 3 | March 30 – April 13 | May 4 – May 18 | July 20 – August 24 |
| Zone 4 | March 20 – April 3 | April 24 – May 8 | July 10 – August 14 |
| Zone 5 | March 6 – March 20 | April 10 – April 24 | June 26 – July 31 |
| Zone 6 | February 19 – March 4 | March 25 – April 8 | June 10 – July 15 |
| Zone 7 | February 5 – February 19 | March 11 – March 25 | May 27 – July 1 |
| Zone 8 | January 19 – February 2 | February 23 – March 8 | May 10 – June 14 |
| Zone 9 | December 21 – January 4 | January 25 – February 8 | April 11 – May 16 |
| Zone 10 | December 5 – December 19 | January 9 – January 23 | March 26 – April 30 |
Dates are averages — adjust ±1–2 weeks for your microclimate. Need your exact dates? Enter your zip code below.
Get your personalized broccoli planting dates
Care tips
- Prefers cool weather — sow again for fall.
- Cut main head while florets are still tight.
- Side shoots keep producing for weeks after.
Good companions
Onion, Beet, Herbs.
Read more: Companion planting chart for vegetables
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Frequently asked questions
When should I start broccoli seeds indoors in zone 5?▾
In USDA zone 5, start broccoli seeds indoors between March 6 and March 20 — that's 6–8 weeks before the average last frost (May 1).
When should I start broccoli seeds indoors in zone 6?▾
In USDA zone 6, start broccoli seeds indoors between February 19 and March 4 — that's 6–8 weeks before the average last frost (April 15).
When should I start broccoli seeds indoors in zone 7?▾
In USDA zone 7, start broccoli seeds indoors between February 5 and February 19 — that's 6–8 weeks before the average last frost (April 1).
When should I start broccoli seeds indoors in zone 8?▾
In USDA zone 8, start broccoli seeds indoors between January 19 and February 2 — that's 6–8 weeks before the average last frost (March 15).
When can I transplant broccoli seedlings outdoors?▾
Transplant broccoli seedlings about -3–-1 weeks after your average last spring frost. In zone 6 that's around March 25–April 8.
How long does broccoli take to grow?▾
Broccoli typically takes 55–85 days to mature, with harvest beginning roughly 8–13 weeks after the last spring frost.