BROCCOLI Kailaan Sprouting Lg 6 pk
$6.25
Harvest the stalks, leaves, and white flowers of this extremely fast-growing sprouting broccoli. Dark green, with large beads and loose florets, this heirloom variety is our earliest maturing broccoli. Harvest regularly to encourage new side shoots. Sweet and tender, perfect for stir-frying, and sure to be a market winner. Heirloom
21 days
$6.25
$6.25
Broccoli Growing Tips
Broccoli is typically grown to harvest the large, immature flower head which is made up of numerous edible floral shoots. The head is harvested before the flowers begin to open. After harvesting this central head, the plant will continue to produce smaller side shoots which can be picked frequently for a continuous harvest. These smaller side shoots are great for stir fries! The leaves of broccoli plants are also edible and can be used the same way as kale or collards. Broccoli is a cool season vegetable which can be planted for both a spring and fall harvest.
Broccoli Spring Raab is grown using the same cultural practices as broccoli, but is actually a different species. Broccoli raab is grown for its tender leaves and small side shoots instead of one central head.
Planting
- Broccoli grows best in well drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0.
- Prior to planting, prepare the soil by incorporating a good quality compost and a balanced fertilizer.
- Plant broccoli 12 to 24” apart in rows that are 18 to 26” apart.
- Using an insect row cover supported on simple hoops is highly recommended to protect the plants from caterpillar damage. The cover prevents the adult moths from being able to reach the plants to lay their eggs. A light weight, insect row cover will work well, and there are many options available. Lengths of flexible PVC pipes or bent EMT conduit may be used to support the cover. Attach the cover with clamps. The row cover should be installed at planting in order to be most effective – those moths arrive very quickly!
Watering
Regular watering is essential to prevent water stress which would severely affect the overall yield. 1” of water per week is recommended. Drip irrigation is an effective and efficient way to irrigate vegetable crops because the water is delivered directly to the soil where it will be taken up by the roots. Drip irrigation also keeps water off of the foliage which will reduce the risk of disease development.
Maintenance
Keep the planting well weeded. Using mulch, such as cocoa mulch, straw, untreated dry grass clippings or shredded leaves will suppress weed growth and help retain soil moisture.
Harvesting
- Broccoli heads should be harvested while the flower buds are still tight, before they start to open and yellow petals are visible. The harvest window is very short, so keep a close eye on it and be ready!
- Cut the head off with a short length of stalk attached.
- The plant may be left in the garden to produce side shoots which should also be harvested before the flowers begin to open.
