How to Grow Bigger Broccoli

Select a garden site that provides at least four to six hours of full sun daily. Broccoli prefers rich, organic, well-drained soil. If possible, have your soil tested before planting to determine the pH level and exact nutritional needs. Broccoli prefers a pH of about 6.0 to 7.5. If necessary, add lime to correct the pH level. Amend dry, rocky or clay soil by mixing in compost or chicken manure. If a soil test is not available, experts at Clemson University recommend broadcasting 5-10-10 fertilizer at the rate of 3 pounds per 100 square feet prior to planting.

Start seeds indoors about six weeks before planting time. Transplant seedlings or sow seeds directly in the garden after all danger of a hard freeze has passed. Use a hoe to create wide, mounded rows about 3 feet apart. Space plants approximately 18 inches to 2 feet apart to allow room for growth. Overcrowding causes broccoli to form smaller heads.

Water the seedlings with a liquid starter fertilizer. Place organic mulch such as straw, chopped leaves or grass clippings around the plants to hold in moisture and help stabilize soil temperature. Keep plants evenly moist but not soggy.

About three weeks after planting seedlings, fertilize plants with a nitrogen-based fertilizer. If seeds were sown directly in the garden, fertilize when seedlings are about 6 inches tall. Apply fertilizer every two or three weeks as needed throughout the growing season. Chicken manure can be used in place of chemical fertilizers.

Check your plants frequently for insect pests such as cabbage worms, cut worms, cabbage aphids and flea beetles. Hand-pick insects or apply pesticides, according to the label instructions. Insects can quickly damage seedlings and stunt growth, so prompt, early treatment is necessary.

Carefully hand-pull weeds as needed. Broccoli has shallow roots that are easily damaged by excessive digging. A thick layer of mulch helps prevent weeds and reduces the need for cultivation.