Growing Purple Sprouting Broccoli in August for a Spring Harvest

Purple sprouting broccoli is a star of the “hungry gap”—that early spring period when little else is ready. Sowing or planting out young broccoli in August gets the plants well established before winter, setting you up for a feast of tender, colourful shoots when you need them most. Here’s how to ensure success!

Why Sow or Plant Purple Sprouting Broccoli in August?

• Early Start, Big Rewards: Plants need time to develop strong stems and roots before cold weather arrives.
• Reliably Overwinters: Withstands frost and snow—plants actually need cold for best yields.
• Fills the Spring Gap: Crops just before other veg are ready, bridging your fresh food supply.

Best Varieties for August Sowing/Planting

• ‘Early Purple Sprouting’
• ‘Red Arrow’
• ‘Rudolph’
• ‘Santee’ (for a slightly later harvest)

How to Plant Purple Sprouting Broccoli in August

From Seedlings:

1. Bed Prep: Remove weeds, rake in compost, and firm soil—broccoli likes solid ground.
2. Spacing: Set plants 60–75cm apart; these get big!
3. Plant Deep: Bury seedlings up to first leaves, firming soil around roots for wind protection.
4. Water In: Keep moist for two weeks after transplanting.
5. Mulch: Add a layer of mulch to conserve moisture and keep weeds down.
6. Protect: Use netting or fleece to guard against birds, butterflies, and caterpillars.

Direct Sowing (less common in August, but possible):

• Sow 1cm deep, 30cm apart. Thin seedlings as they grow and transplant to final spacing once robust.

Ongoing Care

• Water during dry spells: Especially important for young plants in late summer.
• Weed regularly: Especially while plants are small.
• Top up mulch: Keeps roots cool and soil steady.
• Feed in early autumn: Apply a liquid feed or a little general fertilizer before winter.
• Stake if needed: Tall, mature plants benefit from a cane support, especially in exposed sites.

Dealing with Pests and Problems

• Protect from pigeons and cabbage whites with netting or mesh.
• Check for caterpillars and squish/remove by hand.
• Yellow, slow plants can use a seaweed or organic feed boost.

Harvest Timeline

• Main Crop: Early varieties ready from February, others through March–April.
• How to Pick: Snap off tender shoots when flower buds are tight—regular picking encourages more growth.

Purple sprouting broccoli needs only a little late-summer attention for a much-needed supply of fresh shoots just as winter ends. It’s a true gardener’s treat—plant some this August and look forward to your best spring ever!