![]() ![]() After cutting the initial head, broccoli stems will produce smaller secondary heads. Cut the stems at an angle to keep water and diseases at bay. Removing the heads when they are younger and 6 to 8 inches across will help ensure a tastier crop. Harvest the heads when the florets around the edges of the head start to loosen a bit but the center of the head is still tight and green. There are many varieties to try, including: Marathon, Packman, Patriot, Premium Crop, Bravo and Decathion. Mulch broccoli with pine straw or leaves to keep weeds away and to preserve moisture in the soil. After initial fertilization at planting, apply 2 pounds of 5-10-15 fertilizer or equivalent per 100 square feet of bed each month during the growing season. Continue to irrigate broccoli every four to five days, as needed, to keep the plants healthy.īroccoli is a fairly heavy feeder and will require additional nutrients. Water plants daily for the first week to get the crop established. ![]() Irrigation, Fertilization and Weed Controlīroccoli requires proper irrigation to achieve optimum growth. Smooth the soil with a rake and plant the seedlings 18 to 20 inches apart. In the absence of a soil test, incorporate 3 to 4 pounds of 5-10-10 fertilizer per 100 square feet of the garden area. Till the bed to a depth of 8 to 10 inches and remove any sticks and stones. A soil test should be completed to accurately determine soil pH and increase the chances of planting success.įind a garden location that will have at least six to eight hours of sun per day for optimum plant growth. Clay soils, like those in Georgia, should definitely receive the addition of some topsoil, compost or manures in order to increase drainage and available nutrients. Broccoli grows best in soils with a pH between 6.0 and 6.8. Plant them in the garden by the end of August.īroccoli can grow well in a wide range of soils but does best in heavily organic- amended, well-drained areas. ![]() For a fall harvest, start seeds indoors at the end of July. After three days, plants can be left overnight. Seedlings should be hardened off before planting them in March by leaving them outside for a few hours every day. Research shows that plants from this family are extremely healthy to consume and have the potential to reduce certain types of cancer.įor a late spring harvest, start seeds indoors or in a cold frame or greenhouse at the beginning of February.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |