Broccoli
This vegetable is easy to grow and yields much. Side sprouts will still
grow long after the main head has been harvested.
-Planting: It is best to either start broccoli growing 6 or more weeks
prior to planting them, or to buy transplants from a good nursery.
Broccoli is a warm weather crop and should only be planted outside after
all danger of frost has passed. Space rows about 2 feet apart, with at
least 20 inches between each plant. To prevent cutworm damage, stiff
paper should be wrapped around the stem of each plant. One inch of the
collar should be below the soil line, and two inches above.
-Growing: These plants need to be well supplied with water in order to
grow quick and healthy. A thick mulch is best, as it will help ensure an
a adequate moisture supply for the roots. One of the worst enemies to
broccoli is the caterpillar or cabbageworm, which can be combated by
spraying the plants weekly with Bacillus thuringiensis (B.t.). Bacillus
thuringiensis is a bacterial deterrent to the cabbageworm, and is a
naturally safe pest control.
-Harvesting: Flower buds should be picked when they are no more than four
inches across. Heads that have any flowers already open are past their
prime. The smaller and more compact the head is, the better it will
taste. The side shoots should be picked later.
Back