Homegrown broccoli couldn't be easier.
It's been an exciting addition to my spring garden, and I can't wait to try a few new heirloom varieties next year. Purple broccoli? Sign me up!
Types of Broccoli
Large-headed varieties
produce the familiar domed heads that are composed of numerous
clustered florets. Many large-headed varieties produce smaller side
shoots after the primary head is harvested.
Sprouting varieties
grow into bushier plants that produce numerous small heads. These
varieties are at their best when grown from fall to spring in mild
winter climates.
Romanesco varieties produce
elegantly swirled heads composed of symmetrically pointed spirals. These
large plants need plenty of space, excellent soil and good growing
conditions to do well.
Broccoli raab is grown for
its immature flower buds, which have a stronger flavor than regular
broccoli. Broccoli raab (closely related to turnips) is popular in Asian
and Italian cooking.