The best time to harvest broccoli, generally, is when its head reaches 6 to 8 inches in diameter. To harvest, simply use a knife to cut the main stem of the broccoli head. Broccoli is a garden staple.

Broccoli rabe quickly matures, which makes getting the timing right to harvest important. The right stage to harvest broccoli rabe is when the buds are green, tight, and yet to open.