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How to Grow Broccoli Raab

Reviewed by MyLocalPlanting Editorial Team Updated Sources
Broccoli Raab (Brassica rapa subsp. rapa)

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🛠️ Supplies You'll Need

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🌿 Plant Overview

Scientific Name Brassica rapa subsp. rapa
Category vegetable
Days to Maturity 60 days
Starting Method Direct Sow

☀️ Growing Requirements

☀️

Sun

Full Sun (6-8 hours)

💧

Water

Regular (1-2 inches/week)

↔️

Spacing

6" apart

🌱

Depth

0.5" deep

📏

Height

12-24"

🌱

Germination

4-7 days

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🌾 Seed Saving Guide

🟡 Moderate
✅ Open-pollinated — seeds grow true to parent

When to Harvest Seed

Allow plants to flower fully and seed pods to turn tan and dry.

Processing

Thresh dried stalks, winnow to separate seeds from pod fragments.

Seed Viability

Up to 4 years when stored cool, dark, and dry.

Pro Tip

Brassica rapa — crosses with turnip, bok choy, and napa cabbage. Isolate by 300 feet.

Seed Storage Supplies

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Raised Bed Planting Guides

A 4×8 bed fits 4 per sq ft of Broccoli Raab. See plant counts, spacing grids, and companion pairings for every bed size →

Broccoli Raab Planting Calendar by Zone

Broccoli Raab Planting Calendar by State

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Frequently Asked Questions

When should I plant Broccoli Raab? +

Sow Broccoli Raab seeds directly in the garden 6 weeks before your last frost date. Use the search on this page to find exact dates for your location.

How long does Broccoli Raab take to grow? +

Broccoli Raab typically matures in about 60 days from planting. Exact timing varies by variety, soil conditions, and local climate.

Should I start Broccoli Raab indoors or direct sow? +

Broccoli Raab does best when direct sown outdoors. Plant seeds directly in the garden at the appropriate time based on your local frost dates.

How much sun does Broccoli Raab need? +

Broccoli Raab requires full sun (6-8 hours) to thrive.

How far apart should I plant Broccoli Raab? +

Space Broccoli Raab plants 6 inches apart to allow adequate airflow and root development.

How much water does Broccoli Raab need? +

Broccoli Raab has regular (1-2 inches/week) water needs. Consistent moisture is important especially during germination and early growth.

Can you save seeds from Broccoli Raab? +

Yes — seed saving difficulty for Broccoli Raab is rated moderate. Allow plants to flower fully and seed pods to turn tan and dry. Thresh dried stalks, winnow to separate seeds from pod fragments.

How long do Broccoli Raab seeds last in storage? +

Properly dried and stored Broccoli Raab seeds remain viable for up to 4 years. Store in a cool, dark, dry location in an airtight container with a silica gel packet for best results.

Are Broccoli Raab seeds open-pollinated? +

Yes — Broccoli Raab is open-pollinated, meaning seeds saved from your harvest will grow plants true to the parent variety. This makes it an excellent candidate for building a self-sustaining garden.

About Broccoli Raab

Rapini — Italian bitter green with small broccoli-like florets. Fast-growing cool-season crop. Harvest before flowers fully open for best flavor.

Expect your Broccoli Raab to be ready for harvest in approximately 60 days from planting.

Use the search above or browse by zone or state to find the perfect planting dates for your location.