We usually expect a perfect size (or at least normal ) for our broccoli at the time of harvesting. But sometimes we can't make it happen and end up with slender stalks and small florets.
The picture at the top reminds me of broccolini because of the slender stalk and small florets. I was gonna ask if it was broccolini to the seed seller. Then my uncle (an old gardener) told me it is a broccoli.
In this article, I will clear your doubts about small or tiny broccoli heads. On Reddit and Facebook groups, I have seen this question a countless times: "Why are my broccoli heads so small? and what to do in this situation."
Broccoli varieties that can only grow small broccoli
It's not your fault always...
Some varieties are actually not born to hold a big broccoli head. If you wait too long for it to get bigger, it will bloom, and our broccoli might go to waste.
| Variety | Days to Maturity | Head Size |
|---|---|---|
| De Cicco | 48–65 days | Small to medium heads |
| Sprouting Broccoli (Purple/White) | 60–90 days | Multiple small florets |
| Waltham 29 | 74 days | Compact small heads |
| Happy Rich | 55–60 days | Mini broccoli heads |
| Burgundy | 37–50 days | Small purple florets |
If you lost the variety name or tag that you have grown, it's difficult to identify the exact variety, as there are a lot of broccoli varieties out there.
It's possible that you have grown a hybrid variety named "broccolini". This will produce only small broccoli heads but the taste is sweeter than the regular broccoli.
What to do when your broccoli is producing only tiny or small broccoli
If you are sure that the variety is not the issue and you are growing regular broccoli, the next part of this article is for you.
I am gonna discuss here some common reasons why broccoli heads often stay small.
Wrong Planting Time
The first mistake might be the wrong planting time (which is irreversible).
Wrong planting time means: it will get an improper environment, more pest attacks.
So, next time, choose the correct planting time for your broccoli to get those big, healthy heads. The table below can be really helpful for you.
| Crop | Best Planting Season | Seed Starting | Transplanting |
|---|---|---|---|
| Broccoli (Spring) | Early Spring | Start seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost | Transplant seedlings 4–6 weeks later when soil is ≥50°F |
| Broccoli (Fall) | Late Summer / Early Fall | Sow seeds indoors or directly 12–14 weeks before first frost | Transplant 4–6 weeks after sowing (or direct sow 10–12 weeks before frost) |
You should always check your local frost dates, so you can adjust the planting time.
Broccoli needs space for roots and leaves to gather sunlight and nutrients. So, don't plant them too close, give them enough space, at least 18 inches between each plant and 24 inches between rows.
Nutrient Issue
If your soil doesn't have enough nutrients, especially nitrogen, you will see weak growth and small heads.
You should mix compost or well-rotted manure into the soil before planting. Use a balanced fertilizer (like 10-10-10 NPK) or a high-nitrogen feed when plants are about 4 weeks old.
