RUDOLPH BROCCOLI

Brassica oleracea, Botrytis Group. Broccoli is a rich source of vitamins C, K, and B-complex, along with a treasure trove of minerals. Although one cup of milk has more calcium than a cup of broccoli, the human body absorbs the calcium from broccoli more effectively than from milk. From your body’s perspective, broccoli is said to be richer in calcium than milk!

Days to maturity are calculated from date of transplanting; add 25-35 days if direct seeding.

Culture
• Broccoli performs best in fertile, well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0-7.0
• Broccoli is a cool-season crop that does not tolerate extreme heat; rough heads or leaves in the head are usually from heat stress
• Keep beds evenly moist and/or use shade cloth to maintain quality during heat waves
• Excess nitrogen or a boron deficiency can cause hollow stem
• In colder climates covering with Reemay or Frost Blanket will protect plants from frost damage
• Sprouting broccoli is very hardy, surviving down to 10°F — before flower buds open, cut the central head at a 45° angle; side shoots will form from the axillary buds

Direct Sowing
• Direct seed April through June
• At the bottom of the furrow band 1/2 cup of TSC’s Complete fertilizer per 5 row feet
• Cover with loose soil or sifted compost
• Not recommended for fall plantings

Transplanting
• Not recommended for broccoli raab
• Start broccoli indoors 4-6 weeks before your anticipated transplant date
• Side dress with 1/2 cup of TSC’s Complete fertilizer at transplant
• Start autumn/overwintering varieties May—July for transplanting June—August
• Start overwintering sprouting broccoli from mid-May—June, transplant out by the end of July—September

Insects & Diseases
• Common insects: See Brassica Insect Information below
• Disease prevention: 5-7 year crop rotation

Harvest & Storage
• Harvest when heads are tight and dense
• Cut side-shoots regularly to encourage production
• Store at 36°F and 100% relative humidity