How to Sow Giant Green Broccoli Seeds 

Giant green broccoli is a resilient and nutritious vegetable that thrives in UK gardens. Known for its bluish-green heads, this variety is fast-growing and straightforward to cultivate, making it ideal for summer and autumn harvests. Mature plants can reach a height of approximately 2 feet, and with proper care, they can provide a continuous crop. Follow this guide to grow giant green broccoli successfully from seed. 

Sowing Guide for Giant Green Broccoli Seeds 

Indoor Sowing 

• Timing: Start seeds indoors from late winter to early spring (February to April) for an early start to the growing season. 
• Containers: Use pots, seed trays, or containers with good drainage. 
• Sowing Depth: Plant seeds at a depth of 1/8 inch in high-quality seed compost. 
• Germination Conditions: Maintain a consistent temperature of 15–21°C (59–70°F) and keep the soil moderately moist but not waterlogged. 
• Germination Time: Expect seedlings to appear within 7 to 10 days. 

Outdoor Sowing 

• Timing: Sow seeds directly outdoors from April to June, once the soil is workable and the risk of frost has passed. 
• Location: Choose a sunny spot with fertile, well-drained soil. 
• Sowing Depth: Sow seeds 1/8 inch deep in rows. 
• Spacing: Space seeds 18–24 inches apart with rows 24–36 inches apart to give plants ample room to grow. 

Transplanting 

• When to Transplant: Once indoor-grown seedlings reach 4–6 inches tall and have at least two sets of true leaves, transplant them outdoors. 
• Hardening Off: Gradually acclimatize seedlings to outdoor conditions by placing them outside for a few hours each day over a week. 
• Spacing: When transplanting, maintain the same spacing as for outdoor sowing (18–24 inches between plants). 

Caring for Giant Green Broccoli Plants 

Watering 

• Water regularly, keeping the soil evenly moist but not soggy. Increase watering during dry spells to prevent stress on the plants. 

Fertilizing 

• Broccoli thrives in nutrient-rich soil. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer at planting and again halfway through the growing season. 

Weeding and Mulching 

• Keep the area around the plants weed-free to reduce competition for nutrients. 
• Apply a layer of mulch to retain soil moisture, regulate temperature, and suppress weeds. 

Pest and Disease Control 

• Common Pests: Watch for cabbage worms, aphids, and slugs. Use organic pest control methods like neem oil or netting to protect plants. 
• Diseases: Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues like clubroot and downy mildew. Rotate crops yearly to avoid soil-borne diseases. 

Harvesting Giant Green Broccoli 

• Harvest broccoli heads when they are firm and tight, typically around 90 days after planting. 
• Use a sharp knife to cut the central head at an angle, leaving side shoots to develop for additional harvests. 
• Regular harvesting encourages continuous crop production throughout summer and autumn. 

By following these steps, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of giant green broccoli in your garden. This versatile vegetable is not only nutritious but also rewarding to grow, making it an excellent addition to your seasonal planting schedule. 

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