Waltham 29 Broccoli in a wooden box and knife on a white background.
A close-up of Waltham 29 Broccoli heads on leaves.
Waltham 29 Broccoli heads tied with hemp twine surrounded by florets of broccoli on a white background.
Waltham 29 Broccoli in a wooden box with a cutting board and knife on a white background.
An overhead view of Waltham 29 Broccoli heads surrounded by florets of broccoli on a white background.
Waltham 29 Broccoli sauteed on a plate with finger lime seasoning and vintage salt shaker.
Waltham 29 Broccoli growing in the gardens at Baker Creek.
Waltham 29 Broccoli in a wooden box and knife on a white background.
A close-up of Waltham 29 Broccoli heads on leaves.
Waltham 29 Broccoli heads tied with hemp twine surrounded by florets of broccoli on a white background.
Waltham 29 Broccoli in a wooden box with a cutting board and knife on a white background.
An overhead view of Waltham 29 Broccoli heads surrounded by florets of broccoli on a white background.
Waltham 29 Broccoli sauteed on a plate with finger lime seasoning and vintage salt shaker.
Waltham 29 Broccoli growing in the gardens at Baker Creek.

Broccoli Seeds,
Waltham 29

422 ReviewsSKU: #BR105Min. seed count: 300
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Description

(Brassica oleracea). You could call Waltham 29 “Old Reliable” for its hardiness, adaptability and performance in cooler weather. Waltham 29 was developed in the mid 20th century at the Waltham, Massachusetts, Agricultural Experiment Station specifically for growers in the cool climate of the Northeast. The compact plants produce four- to eight-inch, dark green-blue heads and some side shoots. Waltham can really handle the cold, making it a great choice for fall gardens.

Growing Tips: Choose a spot that receives full sun, and has well-draining, rich soil. Amend the soil with organic matter such as compost or aged manure before planting to improve fertility and structure. Ideal growing temperatures range from 60 to 80 F. This variety can tolerate frost but not extreme cold or heat. It is especially well-suited for cooler climates, making it an excellent choice for fall planting in regions with mild winters.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Brassica oleracea
Life Cycle
Annual
Sun Requirement
6–8 hr.
Days to Germinate
5–10
Days to Maturity
60–85
Planting Depth
¼–½ in.
Plant Spacing
12–18 in.
Ideal Temperature
60–80°F
Frost Hardy
Yes

When to Grow

Start seeds indoors 5-6 weeks before the last expected frost date in spring. For a fall harvest, sow seeds directly in the garden or transplant seedlings in midsummer. Waltham 29 typically takes 75 days to mature, depending on conditions​. This variety performs best in USDA zones 3-10. If you’re not sure how to find your first and last frost dates, consult our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'

How to Sow and Plant

Sowing seeds: Direct sow seeds about 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep in the soil, spacing them approximately 4 inches apart. To limit competition and promote healthy growth, thin seedlings to about 12 inches apart once they have sprouted a few true leaves.

Transplanting: If starting seeds indoors, transplant seedlings when they are strong enough and after hardening them off. Plant them at the same depth they were in their pots, spacing them 12 inches apart.

How to Grow

Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water at the base of the plants to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to fungal diseases. Apply a balanced fertilizer monthly or use a slow-release fertilizer at planting time. Organic options like compost tea or aged compost work well to provide necessary nutrients throughout the growing season​. Use organic methods for pest control.

How to Save Seeds

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

When is the best time to harvest Waltham 29 broccoli?

Harvest when the heads are firm and tight. Typically matures in 75 days. Cut the main head with several inches of stem attached. Side shoots will develop after the main head is harvested, extending the harvest period.

Can Waltham 29 broccoli be grown in containers?

Yes, this variety can be grown in containers. Ensure the container has good drainage and receives full sun.

What are the ideal growing conditions for Waltham 29 broccoli?

This variety prefers full sun, well-drained rich soil, and consistent moisture. Prefers 60–80 F, making it ideal for spring and fall planting.

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