HEAD-UP DISPLAY

ONE OF THE EASIEST OF THE BRASSICAS TO GROW, BROCCOLI IS ALSO ONE OF THE HEALTHIEST TO EAT

- Jennifer Stackhouse

Broccoli is often called the healthiest vegetable as it’s packed with nutrients. Rich in vitamin C and high in fibre, it also contains valuable antioxidants and minerals. The dark-green colour of a head of broccoli also indicates that it’s rich in carotenoids.

One of the easiest of all the brassicas to cultivate, broccoli is grown for its buds, which form tightly packed heads. Not only is it easier to grow than, say, cauliflower or Brussels sprouts; it’s also quicker. Expect to harvest the first head 12–16 weeks after sowing.

There are several traditional broccoli varieties grown for their large green heads. ‘Winter Harvest’ is a variety that thrives in cold months. The early heads can be 20cm in diameter: enough to feed the entire family. Side shoots appear after the main heads are picked.

Extend the harvest by planting ‘Summer Green’, which tolerates warmer conditions. ‘Green Dragon’ is a compact broccoli.

PLANTING AND CARE

Grow broccoli from seed or seedling. In cool areas, plant out seedlings in autumn (seed can be started in summer).

To start from seed, sow in seed trays and plant into the garden as the weather and soil cool. Let seedlings grow to around 7–10cm high before planting them out.

Like all cabbage relatives, broccoli grows best in neutral to slightly alkaline soil. Cater for this by digging in dolomite or lime while preparing the bed for planting.

The addition of a little lime is especially important in areas with highly acidic soil (pH 5.5 or less). Also dig in compost and manure or an organic fertiliser prior to planting to provide nutrients.