How to grow broccolini in a raised bed

Broccolini (tenderstem broccoli) gives you long, sweet, tender stems and small florets over a long picking window — more forgiving and productive than a big-headed broccoli, and ideal for a raised bed.

Quick facts

• Position: full sun
• Spacing: 30–40 cm apart
• Tub depth: our 35 cm depth
• Time to harvest: 9–12 weeks

When should I plant broccolini?

Broccolini is a cool-season brassica — plant from late summer through autumn and winter. Our free garden calendar shows the right months for your postcode.

• Subtropical (Brisbane & SEQ): March to May
• Temperate (Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth): February to May
• Cool & mountain (Tasmania, Canberra, highlands): December to March
• Tropical (Cairns, Darwin): April to June
• Arid inland: March to May

How do I grow broccolini in a raised bed?

Plant into rich, firm mix and net the bed against cabbage whites. Cut the central stem and it keeps throwing tender side shoots for weeks — the more you pick, the more it gives.

How often should I water and feed broccolini?

Water deeply and evenly and feed well for a long, productive crop.

What pests attack broccolini?

Keep an eye out for caterpillars, aphids and whiteflies. Most are easily managed — see our safe pest guide.

What diseases affect broccolini?

The main one is downy mildew and leaf spot, usually from damp, crowded conditions. Good airflow and morning watering prevent most.

What grows well with broccolini?

Aromatic herbs and beetroot are good neighbours; keep brassicas away from strawberries. See our companion planting guide.

When do I harvest broccolini?

Snip the stems while the buds are still tight, leaving the plant to send up more. Use the whole tender stem — no peeling needed.

More growing guides: broccoli, gai lan and kale.

Plan your patch: our free garden calendar shows what to plant now where you live. Ready to grow? Browse our raised garden beds or build your own with the garden bed builder.

Image: Downtowngal, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons.