When do I pick my broccoli?

Question

I grew broccoli in my garden for the first time. When is it ready to pick? It is a bit bigger than the amount you would typically put on your fork to eat, right now, how big should I let it get? Thanks.

Answer 1

Pick it before it gets too warm.  Once it gets warm..it will flower and not be edible.

Answer 2

I'm in the same boat as you. If you find out let me know.

Answer 3

If the plant looks like the stuff you eat then it most likely is ready for picking.  Broccoli takes about 60 days to mature.  If you planted the stuff two months ago, I'd say it's ready!!!

If you wait too long the plant will "bolt" and go to seed, and by then the plant gets too bitter to eat.  Then the plant is more interested in making seed than making a side dish for your meal.

You can prolong your harvest by cutting off the main stalk BEFORE IT GOES TO SEED.  This will make the plant grow side stalks and you may get a few more buds from the plant.

(Romaine lettuce, spinach and cabbage do this, too.)

Answer 4

from the size of a large fist, if they start to yellow on the top it means they are seeding.