Grow a versatile and flavorful classic with Broccoli Waltham 29! Developed by the University of Massachusetts in the 1950s, this adaptable heirloom broccoli thrives in both spring and fall plantings. Known for its beautiful dark green to bluish-green heads and exceptional side shoot production, Waltham 29 is one of the most reliable and widely grown heirloom broccoli varieties ever developed. The plants produce medium to large primary heads followed by an extended flush of side shoots after the main head is cut — significantly prolonging your harvest window compared to hybrid varieties. Strong disease resistance and consistent performance across diverse growing conditions make it forgiving for both experienced growers and beginners. Ready to harvest in approximately 75–85 days.

Germination Rate: 97%. Test Date: 5/26. TLM.

Why Choose Broccoli Waltham 29?

• University-Developed Heirloom: Bred by the University of Massachusetts in the 1950s — one of the most rigorously developed and widely trusted heirloom broccoli varieties available.
• Exceptional Side Shoot Production: After the main head is cut, plants produce an extended flush of tender side shoots — dramatically extending the harvest season for weeks beyond the primary cut.
• Beautiful Dark Blue-Green Heads: Dense, well-formed heads with tight florets and attractive coloring — a premium presentation for farmers markets, CSA boxes, and home kitchens.
• Cold-Hardy & Frost-Tolerant: Light frosts actually sweeten the flavor — one of the best broccoli varieties for fall planting and late-season harvests.
• Strong Disease Resistance: Consistent performance across diverse growing conditions — forgiving for beginners and reliable for experienced growers.
• Dual Season: Excellent for both spring and fall planting — versatile across all growing regions.
• Heirloom & Open-Pollinated: Save seeds year after year for a self-sustaining garden.
• Non-GMO: DNA structure never altered from natural traditional breeding methods.

Planting Tips for Success

• Sunlight: Full sun — at least 6 hours per day for strong head development and vigorous plant growth.
• Soil: Rich, well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0–7.0. Broccoli is a heavy feeder — amend generously with compost before planting. Slightly alkaline soil (pH 7.0) helps suppress clubroot disease.
• Planting: Start seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before last spring frost, or 10–12 weeks before first fall frost for a fall crop. Transplant outdoors when seedlings are 4–6 inches tall. Direct sowing is possible but indoor starting produces better results.
• Spacing: Space plants 18–24 inches apart in rows 24–36 inches apart to allow for full head development and air circulation.
• Watering: Keep soil consistently moist — broccoli needs 1–1.5 inches of water per week. Inconsistent watering causes hollow stems and premature bolting.
• Fertilizing: Apply a nitrogen-rich fertilizer at planting and side-dress with nitrogen when plants are 6–8 inches tall. Nitrogen is critical for lush, large head development.
• Support: No staking needed at standard spacing. In windy locations, hill soil around the base for stability.
• Harvesting: Cut the main head when florets are tight and dark green — before any yellowing begins. After the main head is cut, side shoots will continue to develop for several weeks. Harvest side shoots when they reach 3–6 inches. Light frost sweetens the flavor significantly.

Why Choose David's Garden Seeds®?

• Veteran-Owned: Supplying premium seeds since 2009.
• GO TEXAN Certified: Supporting local agriculture and communities.
• Integrity Pledge: We pledge to sell only non-GMO, open-pollinated seeds. Read our Safe Seed Integrity Pledge.
• Vegetable Seed License: All seeds sold under our standard Vegetable Seed License.

Cooking Methods & Uses

• Roasting: Toss florets with olive oil, salt, and garlic. Roast at 425°F for 20–25 minutes until edges are caramelized and crispy — the most flavorful preparation for fresh broccoli.
• Steaming: Steam for 5–7 minutes until tender-crisp. Finish with lemon juice, butter, and flaky salt for a simple, elegant side dish.
• Stir-Fry: Blanch briefly, then stir-fry with garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil for a classic Asian-inspired preparation.
• Broccoli Cheddar Soup: Simmer florets and stems in broth, puree partially, and finish with sharp cheddar for the classic comfort soup.
• Raw & Crudités: Use fresh florets with hummus, ranch, or blue cheese dip — Waltham 29’s tight, dense florets hold up beautifully on crudité platters.
• Pasta & Grains: Toss roasted or blanched broccoli into pasta with olive oil, garlic, red pepper flakes, and Parmesan for a quick weeknight dinner.

Order Waltham 29 Broccoli Seeds Today

Order yours today and grow your own fresh Waltham 29 broccoli in your spring and fall gardens.

Nutritional Information

(Applies to harvested broccoli, not seeds. Per 1 cup (91g) raw chopped broccoli.)

• Calories: 31
• Total Fat: 0.3g
• Sodium: 30mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 6g
• Dietary Fiber: 2.4g
• Total Sugars: 1.5g
• Protein: 2.6g
• Vitamin C: 135% DV
• Vitamin K: 116% DV
• Folate: 14% DV
• Potassium: 8% DV

Important Disclosures

• Variety Disclaimer: Heirloom varieties may exhibit natural variation in head size and maturation timing based on growing conditions and climate. Harvest main head before yellowing begins — once florets open, quality declines rapidly. Results may vary.
• Seed Storage: Store seeds in a cool, dry location. Properly stored broccoli seeds maintain viability for 3–5 years.
• Planting Zones: Grown as a cool-season annual in all USDA zones. Best in spring and fall in Zones 3–11; in Zones 8–11, plant as a fall and winter crop for best head development. Broccoli does not perform well in sustained summer heat.

Grow something beautiful. Grow something delicious. Grow with David's Garden Seeds®.