How to grow Broccoli

 

Broccoli is a sun-loving cool season crop. Excessive heat can cause bolting.

Nutritional value:

It is rich in vitamins and minerals and is a good source of vitamin A, potassium, folic acid, iron, calcium and fiber.

Planting:

Before planting mix aged manure and compost into the garden bed. The soil should drain well.

Sowing time:

September-October

Start seed in soil that is at least 40⸰ F in sun.Plant seed ½ inch deep and 3 inches apart. Transplant when plants take four or five leaf.

Row to row and plant to plant distances:

Plant to plant distance: 12 to 20 inch apart. Digs should be slightly deeper than their container depth.

Space rows 36 inch apart.

Temperature:

Plants thrive outdoors in 65⸰ to 70⸰ F.

Irrigation:

Water with 1 to 1 ½ inches per week. Avoid water on developing heads.

Fertilizer:

Spread low-nitrogen fertilizer 3 weeks after transplanting. High nitrogen cause hollow stem.

Care:

Use row covers to avoid pest.

To promote the growth of second head after the first head has been harvested maintain a active feeding and water schedule.

If bottom then top leave turn yellow add blood meal.

Harvesting and storage:

Harvest in the morning, when head buds are firm and tight and before heads flower. Make a slanting cut on the stalk about 5 to 8 inches below the main head. To allow water to slide away.

Storage:

Store broccoli in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If it is washed before storage then dry thoroughly. Or blanch and freeze up to 1 year.

References:

The Old Farmer's Almanac Vegetable Gardener's Handbook

By Old Farmer's Almanac