Waltham 29 Broccoli Seeds

Waltham 29 Broccoli is one of America's most trusted heirloom broccoli varieties, renowned for its dependable performance, exceptional cold tolerance, and delicious blue-green heads. Developed at the University of Massachusetts and released in the 1950s, Waltham 29 quickly became the standard by which many home garden broccoli varieties are measured. This open-pollinated heirloom produces large central heads followed by an abundance of tender side shoots, extending the harvest for weeks after the main head is cut. It remains one of the finest broccoli varieties for fall gardens and cooler climates. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

Flavor Profile

Waltham 29 offers the classic broccoli flavor gardeners love—sweet, mild, and slightly nutty with crisp, tender stems and tightly packed florets. Cool autumn temperatures enhance its natural sweetness, making fall harvests especially flavorful.

Growing Information

Start seeds indoors 5 to 7 weeks before transplanting or sow directly outdoors for fall harvests. Space plants 18–24 inches apart in fertile soil enriched with compost. Broccoli grows best during cool weather with consistent moisture. Harvest the central head while the flower buds remain tight, then continue harvesting side shoots for several weeks. Waltham 29 performs especially well as a fall crop because of its exceptional cold tolerance.

Harvest & Storage

Harvest the main head when it reaches full size but before individual flower buds begin to loosen or open. Cut several inches below the head to encourage vigorous side shoot production. Fresh broccoli keeps well under refrigeration for about one week and freezes exceptionally well after blanching.

Quick Facts