It grows in sun or semi-sun, matures in 55 to 75 days, and tolerates any well drained soil. Keep the pH between 5.5 and 6.6 unless clubroot is a problem then it should be 6.8. Seed started indoors takes 4 to 6 weeks to make a suitable transplant. Transplants larger than 6 inches may show buttoning. Buttoning occurs if plants are exposed to temperatures below 45 degrees for long periods of time. Space plants 18 to 24 inches apart in rows 30 inches apart. If the garden was not fertilized use 5 cups of 5-10-10 per 50 feet of row. Sidedress with the same amount of fertilizer 6 weeks after planting.

The edible portion is the unopened flower buds. If yellow flowers are produced, the harvest time was missed. Cut the head with some stem while the head is still tight. After the main head is removed, side shoots form which may also be harvested. Broccoli is not stored.

Source: Michigan State University Extension.