A Primer on Growing Broccoli

A mature broccoli plant in late July. The crown is showing tinges of yellow meaning the crown is just past its prime. Note the small holes in the foliage. Was it slugs or caterpillars? See the text for clues. ANDREW MESSINGER

Aspabroc is a broccolini developed 20 years ago and is a cross between Italian Sprouting broccoli and Chinese kale. It has an asparagus look and the stem and florets are edible with a peppery-sweet flavor. This variety is also well suited to container and pot growing. PARK SEED

Broccoli Jacaranda is a purple-crowned type that’s a cross between broccoli and cauliflower. The heads are about 5 inches in diameter and the plants mature in about 50 days from transplants. PURE LINE SEEDS

Broccoli Raab, also called false broccoli, is actually closely related to mustards and turnips with a bitter, sharper flavor than traditional broccoli. It’s used widely in Italian and Chinese cuisine. Great for early-fall harvesting. TRUE LEAF MARKET

Asteroid is a broccoli from Harris Seeds. The heads are a dark green and the plants mature in 77 days from transplants. HARRIS SEEDS

Green Magic broccoli is similar to Gypsy but the plants are smaller and more uniform. Only 57 days to harvest from transplants. HARRIS SEEDS