Broccoli (Imperial)

Imperial Broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. italica) – 4–5 Inch Pot
Available in Jupiter, FL. at Urban Abundance.

Designed for heat tolerance and late-season performance, Imperial Broccoli is a favorite among South Florida growers. This variety produces uniform, tightly packed green heads with a smooth texture and excellent flavor, perfect for gardeners looking for reliability and strong yields in our fall and early spring window. Part of the Brassicaceae family, Imperial is a cool-season annual vegetable that shines in South Florida’s mild, dry season.

Our 4–5 inch potted starters are ideal for transplanting into garden beds or large containers, and they’re bred to hold up in our warmer-than-average winters.

Sunlight Needs: Full sun—6–8 hours per day supports dense head formation and healthy growth.
Watering Needs: Moderate. Maintain consistent moisture in the soil. Drip irrigation or base watering is best to prevent disease.
Soil Requirements: Rich, well-draining soil amended with compost. Slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0–6.8).
Growth Habit: Upright with a central crown and occasional side shoots. Reaches 18–30 inches tall.
Harvest Timing: Harvest main heads 65–75 days after transplant. Harvest early for best texture and flavor.
Cold Tolerance: Excellent. Well-suited for South Florida’s cool season from October through March.
Special Features:

• Hybrid bred for heat tolerance and extended harvest windows

• Produces consistent, high-quality heads

• Slow to bolt in warmer weather

• Ideal for backyard gardens or market growers

South Florida Notes: Imperial Broccoli is a dependable choice for South Florida’s fluctuating winter temps. Its heat resilience helps it thrive even if we get a warm spell. Use mulch to moderate soil temperature, and pair it with herbs like dill or calendula for natural pest support.

Next steps after purchase:

• Transplant into fertile soil in full sun

• Water regularly to keep soil moist but not soggy

• Fertilize with a nitrogen-rich organic blend every 3–4 weeks

• Harvest when crowns are full but before yellowing or flowering

• After main harvest, monitor for side-shoot production for continued yields

This is a cool-season annual—grows, produces, and completes its cycle in a single season. Replant next fall for fresh harvests.