purple sprouting broccoli

[Sam.k]

Hey all, I've never grown this before. I purchased some plants in February and planted them out expecting to get broccoli late in the year.
I checked the garden today to find
They are all going for it.
Help!
How big will the sprouts get? when should I harvest them? Are they supposed to be doing this?
I'm a bit lost.

[rustylady]

Cut those little purple buds now and enjoy them

[Sam.k]

Will it continue to grow afterwards?

[Scarlet]

Yes, it should start sprouting side shoots. You can start off some sprouting to over winter for a Spring harvest over the next few weeks. I haven't started mine yet but I do have summer sprouting in the ground now, though mine won't be ready until Aug

[Sam.k]

Ah so I assume that this must of been over wintered then.
I'm actually really excited, my broad beans are on the way and I have salad leaves that are almost ready...
Now I have broccoli as well. So cool.

[Sam.k]

Also if I leave it longer will that centre cluster get bigger or is it ready to harvest now?

[muddled]

It will get bigger....but what's the point in that? It will only delay the plant from setting HUNDREDS more as sideshoots!

[Sam.k]

Oh I see.... well I might wait until we have enough for a proper portion