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How to Grow Broccoli
Broccoli is a type of cruciferous vegetable loved by many due to its culinary uses. It is prized by gardeners, as it is a very rewarding plant to know how to grow broccoli. That being said, it can also be a very difficult plant to grow. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the broccoli plant growing stages, from its history to harvesting. Check out the following links to purchase useful products for the preceding activities.
Products:
If you want to purchase broccoli seeds for your garden, check out the following link:
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This post was linked to in Ridge Haven Homestead’s Sunday Sunshine blog hop, so check them out to learn more.
How to Grow Broccoli
If you’re interested in learning more about broccoli growing, you’re in the right place. Broccoli is a nutritious and delicious vegetable that is relatively easy to grow when done properly. To begin, it’s important to understand the broccoli growing stages, from seedling to maturity. There are different types of broccoli plants that you can grow, some of which may be better suited to your climate and soil type. In order to successfully grow broccoli, you’ll need to have a basic understanding of soil preparation, seed sowing, watering, and fertilization. It’s also essential to implement effective pest control measures, such as natural remedies, as broccoli is vulnerable to several pests. With patience and diligence, you can learn how to grow broccoli and enjoy a bountiful harvest of this nutritious green vegetable.
The History of Broccoli
Broccoli has been cultivated for over 2,000 years, originating from the Mediterranean region. It was prized by the Greeks and Romans, as it was first domesticated in Italy. Broccoli is part of the same family as other brassica vegetables like cauliflower, kale, and Brussels sprouts.
When to Grow Broccoli
Broccoli is a cool-season crop that thrives in temperatures between 60-65°F (15-18°C). It can be grown in both spring and fall, but it’s best to plant it in the late summer for fall harvesting and in early spring for a late spring/early summer harvest. Start by setting up your seedlings indoors about 6-8 weeks before transplanting them outside. If you want to learn more, check out our post about starting seeds indoors.
If you’re not buried under snow like I am, broccoli is also amazing as a winter vegetable. It can take light frosts, which can actually improve the sweetness of the broccoli. If you want to learn more, check out our post on 15 of the best vegetables to grow in the winter.
Broccoli Varieties
There are a number of broccoli varieties to choose from, each with their own unique taste and texture. For instance, you can pick the standard Calabrese broccoli, which is easy to find in most grocery stores, or try other varieties like Early Purple broccoli and Romanesco, for something different. Choose the variety that suits your region’s climate and your taste buds.
If you want to purchase any of the named broccoli varieties, simply click its name!
Soil and Plant Spacing
Broccoli thrives in well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0-7.0. You can test soil pH by using a soil test kit, which you can purchase online or at garden stores, but I wouldn’t stress about it too much. You’ll want to plant your broccoli seedlings about 12-24 inches apart, depending on the variety. Make sure to give them enough space so that they don’t compete for soil nutrients and water, which can lead to stunted growth and smaller heads.
Sunlight Conditions
Broccoli needs at least six hours of sunlight daily. It can grow in partial shade (4-6 hours), but the head size may be smaller.
If you are being a daredevil and growing broccoli in the summer, reduce the sunlight hours to partial shade to prevent your plants from bolting.
Watering
Water your broccoli plants with 1-1.5 inches of water each week. You can use a rain gauge to gauge how much rainfall you are getting every week. Ensure that the soil stays moist (but not wet), especially during hot weather, as broccoli plants can wilt quickly. In general, practice general watering techniques when growing broccoli.
Fertilizer
Broccoli is a heavy feeder, so you’ll need to fertilize it regularly to help it thrive. Before planting your broccoli, incorporate a good amount of compost or manure or a balanced vegetable fertilizer into the soil. You can add additional fertilizer every 3-4 weeks throughout the growing season. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth and smaller broccoli heads.
Pest Control
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While growing broccoli, it’s important to be vigilant against common pests and diseases that can hinder its growth and affect overall plant health. I always say that if you want to completely avoid pests, simply cover them with this insect netting before they show up. But if they have already arrived, here are some common pests to watch out for and ways to control them:
Cabbage Worms: These green caterpillars can munch on broccoli leaves and heads. To control them, you can handpick and remove them from the plants. Alternatively, you can use organic insecticides like this Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis), which is specifically formulated for caterpillar control.
Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that cluster on the undersides of leaves and can stunt plant growth. Regularly inspect your broccoli plants and spray them with a strong stream of water to wash away the aphids. If necessary, use this insecticidal soap or neem oil to control severe infestations.
Slugs and Snails: These slimy creatures can cause damage to broccoli seedlings. Surrounding your plants with this copper tape or using beer traps can help deter and control slugs and snails.
Harvesting
How does broccoli grow? The part of the broccoli that we normally consume (the head) is actually the unopened flower buds of the plant, suspended on a sort of flower spike. However, you can also eat the leaves, which can be prepared similarly to kale. The key to harvesting broccoli is timing. When the central head is about 4-7 inches in diameter, with its buds still tightly closed and compact, it’s ready to be harvested. Use a sharp knife to cut off the central head about 5-6 inches below the head. Once the central head is removed, side shoots will begin to grow, and they can be harvested once they reach maturity.
Avoid waiting too long to harvest, as the buds will begin to flower and lose their sweet taste. But you can still eat the head once it has flowered.
Frequently Asked Questions
From seed to harvest, broccoli takes about 70-90 days to fully mature. However, it is dependent on the variety of broccoli that you are growing. Some varieties take less time, while some may take more time. For an accurate estimate, read the back of the seed packet.
Yes, broccoli will regrow after harvesting the initial head. But the new florets won’t grow to the same size as the first one. These are called side shoots, and they will grow after the main head is harvested, and they can be eaten in the same way.
The trick with growing broccoli is the temperature. Broccoli needs an ideal temperature range of 15-18°C. Broccoli does not do well in temperatures much higher than that.
Conclusion
In conclusion, growing broccoli is a fulfilling and rewarding experience that can benefit both your health and culinary pursuits. By following the above steps, you’ll be well on your way to producing a bountiful supply of fresh and delicious broccoli.
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