Broccoli

It is a cool season crop and can be grown in the spring season. It is a rich source of nutrition such as iron, calcium, and vitamins. The crop contains 3.3% of protein content and high content of vitamins A and C. It also contains a substantial amount of riboflavin, niacin, and thiamine and also contains a high concentration of carotenoids. It is mainly used for salad purposes and can be eaten by lightly steaming it. It is mainly marketed fresh, frozen, or as a salad.

Broccoli has a moderate growth rate. It is typically planted in the early to mid-spring for an early summer harvest. And in warm climates, a late summer planting can yield a fall harvest.

Broccoli is technically a biennial, completing its lifecycle in two growing seasons. However, most people grow it as an annual to harvest before it flowers and goes to seed.

Nomenclature

Botanical Name Brassica oleracea var. italica
Family Brassicaceae
Genus Brassica
Species oleracea
Types Calabrese, Green Magic, Green Goliath, Flash

Planting Guide

Flowers

Flower Color: Gold/Yellow, Green
Flower Inflorescence: Raceme
Flower Value To Gardener: Edible
Flower Bloom Time: Fall, Spring, Summer
Flower Shape: Cross
Flower Petals: 4-5 petals/rays

Fruits

Fruit Color: Brown/Copper, Green
Fruit Value To Gardener: Edible
Display/Harvest Time: Fall, Spring, Summer
Fruit Type: Siliqua
Fruit Length: 1-3 inches
Fruit Width: < 1 inch

Leaves

Leaf Color: Blue, Green, White
Leaf Feel: Waxy
Leaf Value To Gardener: Edible
Leaf Type: Simple
Leaf Arrangement: Alternate
Leaf Shape: Oblong, Ovate
Leaf Margin: Entire, Undulate
Hairs Present: No

Collect Seeds

Once the seed pods have fully dried, gently cut them from the plant. Crumble them over a white cloth, so you can easily spot and separate the seeds from the chaff.

Harvest  

60-90 days after transplanting.

Soil Texture Loam (Silt)
Soil Drainage Good Drainage , Moist
Soil Chemistry

pH 5.0-6.5 is optimum for broccoli cultivation.

Cultivation

Germination 10 to 14 days
Bloom 80 to 100 days

Temperature (Climate)
Temperature
Light Full sun (6 or more hours of direct sunlight a day)
Health Benefits

✓ Packed With Vitamins, Minerals, and Bioactive Compounds
✓ Contains Potent Antioxidants That Offer Health-Protective Effects
✓ Nutrient Content May Support a Healthy Pregnancy
✓ Nutrient Content May Support a Healthy Pregnancy
✓ Bioactive Compounds May Contribute to Reduced Inflammation
✓ May Protect Against Certain Types of Cancer
✓ Antioxidants and Fiber May Aid Blood Sugar Control
✓ May Support Dental and Oral Health
✓ May Promote Healthy Bones and Joints
✓ May Support Heart Health in a Variety of Ways
✓ Promotes Healthy Digestion and Reduced Constipation
✓ May Slow Mental Decline and Support Healthy Brain Function
✓ May Help Slow the Aging Process
✓ Vitamin C Content Supports a Healthy Immune System