Guidelines for Cultivating Broccoli in Your Backyard Garden
In the heart of Jork-Königreich, Kirsten Peters shares her insights on growing broccoli, a member of the brassica group that includes large leafy green vegetables.
Preparing the Soil
Start broccoli plants off in modules or cell packs early in the year. A nutrient-rich soil, particularly high in nitrogen, is essential for broccoli. To achieve high levels of nitrogen, add copious amounts of manure to the soil, but be aware that manure increases the acidity of the soil. To maintain a balanced pH, plant broccoli in last year's legume beds, as legumes help raise the levels of nitrogen in the soil. Alternatively, add a dressing of fertiliser (such as fish, blood, and bone) and a dusting of lime to the soil to make it more alkaline.
Sowing and Transplanting
Sow the seeds in a general-purpose compost, thinning to one per module. When the seedling has a few leaves and is large enough to pot, move it to a 3'' pot using more general-purpose compost with a dressing of lime. Plant out the broccoli plants in a firm soil when they are large enough, spacing them about a yard apart.
Caring for Broccoli Plants
A compact soil is important for broccoli plants, as they can often be damaged by winds. Growing nasturtiums among broccoli plants can attract caterpillars away from the broccoli. Planting broccoli with dill and rosemary can help disguise it from insects. Checking the underside of broccoli leaves weekly can help control caterpillar infestations.
Dealing with Pests and Diseases
The cabbage white butterfly's caterpillar and the cabbage root fly are problem insects for broccoli. To protect the plants from the cabbage root fly, consider using a barrier made from roof felt, carpet underlay, or cardboard. If your soil suffers from club root, it does not mean that you cannot grow brassicas, but it does make it extremely challenging. To avoid the problems of club root, pot on your plants from a 3'' pot to a larger 6'' pot and grow the plant on further.
Harvesting Broccoli
The harvest time for broccoli is difficult to tie down as it is weather dependent. Picking broccoli spears regularly can result in more broccoli production. When the broccoli heads start to flower, it's time to harvest them.
By following these guidelines, you can successfully grow and enjoy your own broccoli crop in your garden. Happy gardening!
