How to Grow De Cicco Broccoli: Tender, Nutritious & Perfect for Home Gardens

About De Cicco Broccoli

De Cicco Broccoli is a popular heirloom variety of Brassica oleracea, known for its compact growth, early maturity, and abundant side shoots. Unlike commercial hybrids that produce one large head, De Cicco gives a modest central head followed by many tender, flavorful florets, ideal for multiple harvests.

Its excellent adaptability makes it perfect for home gardens, small kitchen plots, and organic cultivation.

Why Grow De Cicco Broccoli?

This variety is a favorite among home gardeners for good reason:

• Produces multiple harvests from side shoots
• Grows well in containers or small garden spaces
• High in vitamins A, C, K, calcium, and fiber
• Tolerates a wider range of temperatures than hybrids
• Excellent for organic gardens due to natural resilience

De Cicco is the best choice for anyone seeking nutrient-rich, fresh broccoli straight from the garden.

When to Plant

Timing is key for a good broccoli crop:

• Plant in early spring for a summer harvest
• Or in late summer for a fall/winter harvest
• Avoid sowing during peak summer heat

Broccoli grows best in cool-season conditions (15–25°C).

Where to Plant

Choose the right location for optimal growth:

• Full sun (6–8 hours daily)
• Well-drained, fertile soil enriched with compost
• Slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0–7.0)
• Raised beds or deep containers work well

Good drainage prevents root rot and enhances root health.

How to Plant

1. Sow seeds indoors 4–6 weeks before transplanting, or directly in cool weather
2. Space plants 12–18 inches apart, rows 18–24 inches apart
3. Sow seeds ¼–½ inch deep
4. Keep soil consistently moist until germination (5–10 days)

Transplant when seedlings are 4–6 inches tall, with 4–5 true leaves.

How to Care

Broccoli needs steady care to thrive:

• Water deeply 1–2 times per week
• Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds
• Use organic compost tea or balanced fertilizer every 3–4 weeks
• Watch for pests like aphids, cabbage worms, and flea beetles
• Use neem oil or row covers for natural pest control

Keep soil moist, especially during head formation.

Companion Plants

Grow De Cicco Broccoli with beneficial companions:

• Beets, celery, chamomile, dill, and onions support growth and pest control
• Marigold and nasturtium repel cabbage worms and aphids
• Avoid planting with tomatoes, peppers, or strawberries

Interplanting attracts pollinators and balances nutrients in the soil.

Harvesting

Harvest broccoli when:

• The central head is fully formed but before it opens into flowers
• Cut the main head with 6 inches of stem
• Side shoots will continue to form for extended harvesting

Store in the refrigerator for up to a week, or blanch and freeze for long-term use.

Uses

De Cicco Broccoli is delicious and versatile:

• Steamed, stir-fried, or roasted
• Added to soups, pasta, and rice dishes
• Blended into smoothies for a nutrient boost
• Used in salads, quiches, and casseroles
• Great for baby food and low-carb recipes

Broccoli retains most nutrients when lightly cooked.

Final Thoughts

Broccoli De Cicco is a gardener’s dream: compact, productive, and packed with health benefits. With its mild flavor, extended harvest window, and ease of growth, this heirloom variety is perfect for anyone growing food at home.

Order premium De Cicco Broccoli seeds now from dharaseeds.com and start your journey toward homegrown, chemical-free vegetables.