Bitter Flavored Broccoli
I have tried growing broccoli for several years. The plants look fine but the flavor is bitter.
Broccoli, just like cabbage, cauliflower and Brussels sprouts is a cool weather plant. It grows, produces, and tastes best in cooler weather (65 to 75 degrees). Plant transplants outdoors in early spring so the harvest occurs before hot weather arrives. Wait until the prolonged cold period have passed or provide extra protection with a cold frame, wall-o-water or floating row cover like ReeMay or Harvest Guard. Broccoli subjected to 10 or more days of below 50 degrees will set flower resulting in poor establishment and a very small harvest. Or try a fall crop. Place transplants in the garden in the summer. These will be ready to pick in fall when the temperatures start to cool. Don't worry about fall frost. A light frost on established plants will improve the flavor.
Related
Upcoming Live Events
& Webinars
April 27, 2024
Ridges & Rivers Book Festival
Viroqua, WI
Register now
April 28, 2024
Flowering Trees and Shrubs
Ebert's Greenhouse Village, Ixonia, WI
May 1, 2024
FREE WEBINAR
Ornamental Fruits and Vegetables
Register now
May 4, 2024
Garden U 2024
New Richmond, WI
Register now
May 9, 2024
FREE WEBINAR
How to Plant Your Rain Garden
Register now
May 11, 2024
Ask The Plant Doctor Q & A
Ebert's Greenhouse Village, Ixonia, WI
May 12, 2024
Ask The Plant Doctor Q & A
Ebert's Greenhouse Village, Ixonia, WI
May 18, 2024
Ask The Plant Doctor Q & A
Ebert's Greenhouse Village, Ixonia, WI
June 1, 2024
Selecting, Planting, Pruning and Caring for Hydrangeas
Ebert's Greenhouse Village, Ixonia, WI
June 5, 2024
FREE WEBINAR
Under-Appreciated Pollinators
Register now
WATCH ON-DEMAND WEBINARS
Learn More