Broccoli is a cool-season annual grown for its delicious green heads. A long-time favorite variety, Waltham 29 broccoli plants were developed in 1950 at the University of Massachusetts and named for Waltham, MA. Open-pollinated seeds of this variety are still sought after for their incredible flavor and cold tolerance.
Interested in growing this broccoli variety? The following article contains information on how to grow Waltham 29 broccoli.
About Waltham 29 Broccoli Plants
Waltham 29 broccoli seeds were specifically developed to withstand the colder temperatures of the Pacific Northwest and East Coast. These broccoli plants grow to a height of about 20 inches (51 cm.) and form blue-green, medium to large heads on long stalks, a rarity amongst modern hybrids.
Like all cool-season broccoli, Waltham 29 plants are quick to bolt with high temperatures but thrive in cooler regions rewarding the grower with compact heads along with some side shoots. Waltham 29 broccoli is an ideal cultivar for cooler climates that wish for a fall harvest.
Growing Waltham 29 Broccoli Seeds
Start seeds indoors 5 to 6 weeks before the last frost in your area. When the seedlings are about 6 inches (15 cm.) in height, harden them off for a week by gradually introducing them to outdoor temps and light. Transplant them an inch or two (2.5 to 5 cm.) apart in rows that are 2-3 feet (0.5-1 m.) apart.
Broccoli seeds may germinate with temperatures as low as 40 F. (4 C.). If you wish to direct sow, plant seeds an inch deep (2.5 cm.) and 3 inches (7.5 cm.) apart in rich, well-draining soil, 2-3 weeks prior to the last frost for your area.
Direct sow Waltham 29 broccoli seeds in late summer for a fall crop. Plant Waltham 29 broccoli plants with potatoes, onions, and herbs but not pole beans or tomatoes.
Keep the plants consistently watered, an inch (2.5 cm.) per week depending upon weather conditions, and the area around the plants weeded. Light mulch around the plants will help to slow down weeds and retain moisture.
Waltham 29 broccoli will be ready to harvest 50-60 days from transplanting when the heads are dark green and compact. Cut the main head off along with 6 inches (15 cm.) of the stem. This will encourage the plant to produce side shoots that can be harvested at a later time.
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