Growing Broccoli in Zone 5A

Broccoli is a cool-season brassica that produces both a main head and smaller side shoots.

Zone 5A has a moderate growing season. Most crops do well here with proper timing around frost dates.

Top Growing Tips

• Start indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost for spring crop
• Harvest main head before flowers open (when buds are tight)
• After main head is cut, side shoots keep producing for weeks
• Floating row covers protect against cabbage worms
• Fall plantings often produce larger heads than spring

Companion Planting

Good companions: onions, celery, potatoes, dill, chamomile

Avoid planting near: tomatoes, peppers, strawberries

Harvest Timeline

55-80 days from transplant

About Zone 5A

USDA Hardiness Zone 5A has an average last spring frost around Apr 25 and first fall frost around Oct 8. All planting dates above are calculated from these frost dates. Your specific location may vary — check with your local extension office for the most accurate dates.