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Why is my Broccoli forming a head in May #868452

Asked May 14, 2024, 5:58 PM EDT

I started my Broccoli indoors early in February under Led lights. I hardened them off in a cold frame in March, then planted them out end of March. It was still wet and rainy early in April and they didn't grow a ton. However they made good growth end of April and in May. I kept them good and wet with 4" inch spaced drip tape and fertilized when I prepared the beds early in March. The plants are looking great, no bug problems, and are starting to really grow. I was already getting excited for a nice harvest early in August. Then today I walked down the rows and noticed they are already forming little heads. I feel its way too early for this, and without intense heat or dry soil I don't understand why they are already forming heads. The plants should be three times as big before this should happen. I am using Green Magic hybrid broccoli seed from West coast seed. Wondering what I did wrong? Is it too late to restart from seed for a later harvest? What is a good bolt resistant, large headed broccoli variety?

Multnomah County Oregon

Expert Response

Thank you for your questions, Achim.  This Extension article explains why brassicas bolt in the spring:  https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/bolting-in-spring-vegetables

This OSU publication has a comprehensive guide to growing it in our area (designed for commercial applications) that has the answers:  https://horticulture.oregonstate.edu/oregon-vegetables/broccoli-1

Good luck!
An Ask Extension Expert Replied May 15, 2024, 4:22 PM EDT

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