Broccoli Seeds, Early Purple Sprouting

Sku:
#BR102
Minimum seed count:
150
star-filled
3.5
38 Reviews
$3.50

Description

(Brassica oleracea) This buttery soft, nutty-flavored broccoli from the U.K. is a sublime winter treat. Early Purple Sprouting produces lots of purple broccoli sprouts in the spring. Listed in John Mason’s seed catalog in 1793.

Growing Tips

Early Purple Sprouting broccoli is a hardy vegetable that thrives in cooler climates and is well-suited for overwintering in zones 7b or higher. This variety grows slowly during the winter and produces sprouts in the spring, making it a valuable addition to a cold-season garden. It prefers full sun, especially in cool weather, and can tolerate light shade. This broccoli variety requires moist, well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0, and benefits from a high-nitrogen compost or manure to support its nutrient needs​.

When to Grow

For a winter harvest, sow seeds in early spring or late summer. For spring harvests, sow seeds in mid-June. If starting indoors, begin 6-8 weeks before the last spring frost. In mild climates, it can be grown year-round, but in cooler regions, it is typically grown through the winter in a protected area for a spring harvest. Needs overwintering, at least six weeks of cool temperatures, to produce florets.

How to Sow and Plant

Indoors: Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost in your area. Use seed trays filled with well-draining compost. Place trays in a warm, sunny location and keep the soil moist. Transplant seedlings into the garden when they have their first set of true leaves.

Outdoors: Prepare the soil by incorporating well-rotted compost or manure. Sow seeds 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep. Space plants 12 inches apart. Ensure the soil is consistently moist and weed-free until germination​.

How to Grow

After transplanting, water regularly to keep the soil moist. Apply mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks. Watch for pests such as aphids and cabbage worms, and use organic methods to control them if needed. Support plants with stakes if they grow tall and become unstable. Harvest when the spears are firm and deep purple by cutting them off at the base with a sharp knife​​.

How to Save

Broccoli is considered to be a more challenging crop for seed saving. It is a biennial and will not flower until its second year of growth.

It is easy to keep broccoli alive over winter in climates where the winter is mild. Northerners will need to get creative; established broccoli is not tolerant of temperatures below 20 F.

FAQ

Can I grow Early Purple Sprouting broccoli in containers?
Yes, but ensure the container is deep and wide enough to accommodate root growth, and receives plenty of sun and water.

How often should I water Early Purple Sprouting broccoli?
Provide 1-2 inches of water per week, adjusting during dry spells to keep the soil consistently moist​, as plants do not tolerate drought​.

What are common pests and diseases?
Common pests include cabbage worms, cabbage loopers, and diamondback moths. Diseases such as clubroot, black rot, and downy mildew can also affect the plants. Regular monitoring and appropriate organic treatments are recommended​​.

delivery
Fast & Free shipping. Seed Orders Shipped in 2-5 days from our seed store!
Our customers love us
Broccoli Seeds, Early Purple Sprouting
star-filled
3.5
Customer reviews (38)

Similar Products

$3.50