Broccoli Seeds - Waltham 29

Reliable heirloom broccoli with deep green heads and cold tolerance for fall harvests.

Description

The dependable heirloom that set the standard for American broccoli. Brassica oleracea (Italica Group) ‘Waltham 29’ produces compact, stocky plants with deep green, finely beaded heads known for their rich flavor and cold tolerance. The domed crowns average 4–6 inches across, dense and uniform, followed by a generous flush of tender side shoots that extend the harvest long after the central head is cut.

Developed at the University of Massachusetts in Waltham in 1951, this variety was bred for New England’s short seasons and unpredictable weather. Its remarkable adaptability soon made it a national favorite, thriving in both spring and fall gardens. The flavor is full-bodied and slightly nutty, holding its texture and sweetness when roasted, steamed, or eaten raw.

‘Waltham 29’ remains a symbol of the golden age of public plant breeding—open-pollinated, reliable, and resilient. A true heirloom workhorse that bridges heritage flavor with practical performance, offering gardeners the satisfaction of steady yields and timeless taste.