Washington · Garden vegetables

Broccoli season in Washington

Typically mid-June to mid-October, with peak early July through late September.

Hatched chalk = early and late shoulders; solid = peak.

Skagit and other west-side farms; cool maritime summers suit it.

At a glance

Early

From mid-June — first pickings, lighter supply, best prices come later.

Peak

early July through late September — full stalls, full flavor. This is the stretch to plan around.

Late

Through mid-October — quantity for preserving, and the stalls start dealing.

Season length

about 17 weeks end to end, shoulders included.

Broccoli

Look: Tight domed heads of small dark blue-green beads with no yellow buds opening.
Feel: Heavy for its size with a firm head and a moist, freshly cut stem end.
Smell: Clean and mild; a strong cabbage smell means the head is old.
Tip: Ask for side shoots late in the season — the small second-cut spears are the sweetest.
Keeps: Fridge, unwashed and loosely wrapped, 3 to 5 days.

Chasing the season?

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The whole national sweep · everything in season in Washington

Frequently asked questions

When is broccoli season in Washington?

In Washington, the broccoli season typically runs mid-June to mid-October, with peak availability early July through late September. Exact weeks shift a little with each year's weather.

Can I pick my own broccoli in Washington?

Not a u-pick crop; look for fresh-cut heads and side shoots at farm stands. The best market weeks are early July through late September.

How long does broccoli season last in Washington?

about 17 weeks end to end — mid-June to mid-October. The early and late shoulders are real but lighter; the solid stretch of chalk on the band is the sure bet.